McNeese State, which returns five everyday starters and 11 pitchers in coach Justin Hill's fourth season, was picked to finish fourth in two Southland Conference preseason polls released Thursday.
Sam Houston State, last season's regular season and tournament champions, was picked to defend its title by both the league's coaches and sports information directors.
Southeastern Louisiana and Lamar were picked to finish second and third, respectively, by both groups.
The Cowboys, who have four consecutive Southland Tournament appearances, finished 15-15 in conference last season.
Hill, who has finished at or above .500 in Southland play in each of his first three seasons, received a $30,000 raise and one-year contract extension this offseason.
The coach returns freshman All-American Bryan King and All-Southland reliever Collin Kober along with five position players — Joe Provenzano, Matt Gallier, Ricky Ramirez and Shane Selman.
McNeese opens play Feb. 17 against Stony Brook as part of the Lake Area Classic.
Coaches Poll (first place votes)
1. Sam Houston State (11) 143
2. Southeastern Louisiana (2) 133
3. Lamar 114
4. McNeese 104
5. Central Arkansas 100
6. Northwestern State 92
7. Stephen F. Austin 80
8. New Orleans 60
9. Nicholls 53
10. Texas A&M-Corpus Christi 52
11. Houston Baptist 42
12. Abilene Christian 29
13. UIW 12
SID Poll (first place votes)
1. Sam Houston State (10) 142
2. Southeastern Louisiana (3) 135
3. Lamar 125
4. McNeese 101
5. Northwestern State 94
6. Central Arkansas 93
7. New Orleans 74
8. Stephen F. Austin 70
9. Nicholls 60
10. Houston Baptist 44
11. Texas A&M-Corpus Christi 41
12. Abilene Christian 23
13. UIW 12
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