The NCAA Division I Baseball tournament has reached its climax. With 64 teams initially vying for the top spot, only eight remain, ready to showcase their skills and determination at the hallowed grounds of Omaha, Nebraska. The College World Series, a culmination of passion and talent, promises an unforgettable battle for the coveted title of national champion in 2023.
Below, SBS will go into more detail on each squad, how they got to this point, and who will be the ultimate victor in the tournament. If you are interested in betting on Baseball, then check out our MLB wagering guide
| College Baseball World Series Winner |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wake Forest | +225 | +250 | +250 |
| LSU | +325 | +350 | +375 |
| Florida | +375 | +400 | +375 |
| Virginia | +650 | +600 | +600 |
| Tennessee | +800 | +800 | +800 |
| TCU | +900 | +800 | +700 |
| Stanford | +1000 | +1000 | +1400 |
| Oral Roberts | +2800 | +2800 | +2000 |
THE OMAHA 8#MCWS pic.twitter.com/UWRz3adD0X
— NCAA Baseball (@NCAABaseball) June 13, 2023
Emerging as a surprise contender towards the end of the season, the Demon Deacons propelled themselves to the top spot in the nation, toppling LSU and asserting their dominance. With an unwavering determination to prove their worth, they stormed through the regionals and set a remarkable NCAA record by smashing nine home runs in the Super Regional against a stunned Alabama.
Having begun the season as the unanimous preseason number one, LSU encountered a slight stumble in the rankings but re-found their footing. With their sights set on claiming their seventh-ever title, the Tigers unleashed their power, overcoming Kentucky in the Super Regionals and showcasing their championship-caliber form.
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Securing the second national ranking, Florida stands as a formidable force in the tournament. Dominating their opponents with ease, they have swept aside all challengers on their path to victory. Positioned in Bracket 2, they are on a collision course with Wake Forest, setting the stage for a potential showdown of the tournament’s top contenders.
Ranked seventh in the country, Virginia endured a hard-fought battle against Duke in the Super Regional to secure their place in the College World Series. Their determination and resilience were evident as they ground out a gutsy victory. Backed by an impressive complete-game performance from pitcher Brian Edgington.
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After a shocking exit from last year’s competition, Tennessee has undergone a remarkable transformation. Overcoming the odds, they fought their way past Southern Miss in the Super Regional, displaying their resilience and determination. Despite facing challenges with their bullpen, they managed to upset the fourth-ranked Clemson in a gripping 14-inning battle during the regionals, solidifying their status as a team on the rise.
Often overlooked, the Horned Frogs from Texas carry a chip on their shoulder, fueling their determination to make an impact. With an impressive record of winning 19 of their last 21 games, they arrive in Omaha as one of the hottest teams in the tournament. Their commanding sweep of Indiana State in the Super Regionals showcases their strength, and they are ready to make their mark on the national stage.
As the eighth-ranked team in the nation, Stanford has a rich history as one of college baseball’s perennial powerhouses. Demonstrating their ability to rise to the occasion, they relied on the unwavering determination of pitcher Quinn Mathews. Mathews delivered a nine-inning complete game, tallying a huge 16 strikeouts and 156 pitches to force a decisive game three against Texas.
Emerging as an unexpected contender, Oral Roberts defied all expectations to secure a spot in Omaha. Overcoming formidable challenges, they displayed their tenacity and skill by triumphing over Oregon in a thrilling three-game Super Regional battle. As the lowest seed in over a decade to reach the College World Series, they are determined to prove that they belong among the elite and are more than just underdogs.
The remaining eight teams are divided into two four-team brackets, setting the stage for intense competition. Employing a double-elimination format, each team faces off against the others, with elimination occurring after two losses. The brackets progress until only two teams are left standing, representing the winners of each bracket. At this point, the slate is wiped clean, and the ultimate showdown commences—a best-of-three series to determine the national champion.
NCAA College Baseball is notorious for its unpredictability, and this year’s tournament exemplifies the trend. Defending champions, Ole Miss, were unable to secure a bid in this year’s competition, leaving the field wide open for a new titleholder. The last team to successfully defend their crown was the South Carolina Gamecocks, achieving the feat in 2010 and 2011. This year, the journey to glory holds the promise of fresh faces and a new chapter in the sport’s history.
Booked and busy for Baseball ⚾️
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📍 OMAHA, NE#MCWS pic.twitter.com/K0PEBoFILi— NCAA Baseball (@NCAABaseball) June 13, 2023
Bracket 1 has two exhilarating clashes, igniting the tournament’s intensity. The number one seed, Wake Forest, enters the College World Series with an impressive track record, having secured their position atop the national rankings. Their formidable lineup, highlighted by a record-breaking display of power against Alabama, makes them a force to be reckoned with. However, they must contend with Stanford. Their pitching prowess and tenacity in the Super Regionals stunned Texas, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown.
The other Bracket 1 battle pits the fifth-seeded LSU Tigers against the Tennessee Volunteers. LSU, once the unanimous national number one in preseason polls, faced a turbulent journey but has regained momentum. With key players such as Dylan Crews and Paul Skenes, the Tigers aim to recapture their early-season dominance. On the other side, Tennessee seeks redemption after a disappointing exit in the previous year’s competition. With a remarkable rebuild and a tenacious spirit, they are poised to leave their mark on the College World Series.
In Bracket 2, the Florida Gators, the national number two team, showcase their prowess. Having dominated their opponents throughout the tournament, the Gators exude confidence. Their unwavering focus and remarkable resilience make them strong contenders for the championship. They face off against the gutsy Virginia squad. Their journey to Omaha involved a hard-fought victory over Duke, powered by a standout performance from pitcher Brian Edgington.
Meanwhile, TCU emerges as the underrated force from Texas, entering the College World Series with an impressive record. Often overlooked, the Horned Frogs have quietly defeated opponents, including Indiana State in the Super Regionals. Their determination and hunger for success make them a dark horse in the competition. Their opponent, Oral Roberts, defied expectations by securing a spot in Omaha. Overcoming formidable challenges, they showcased their resilience, determined to prove they belong among the elite.
As the final eight teams battle it out in Omaha, NCAA College Baseball enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the culmination of a season filled with passion and unwavering dedication. With familiar powerhouses, rising stars, and unexpected contenders, the College World Series promises captivating performances, clutch moments, and unforgettable memories. Brace yourself for an extraordinary display of talent. These teams leave it all on the field in pursuit of the ultimate prize—being crowned national champions of NCAA College Baseball.
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About the Author
Henry started his career in the betting industry before moving in to writing. He specialises in soccer and golf but covers a multitude of sports from all over the world.
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