Arkansas State Must Turn Progress Into Sun Belt Success in 2027

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Arkansas State baseball took another meaningful step forward in 2026. The next step must be playing in the Sun Belt Conference Tournament — and arriving there with a team capable of doing more than simply making an appearance.

The Red Wolves finished 29-24 overall in their second season under coach Mike Silva, producing their first winning record since 2018 and their highest victory total in years.

They also remained home when the Sun Belt Tournament began.

That is the contradiction Arkansas State must resolve in 2027.

The Red Wolves proved they could win. They showed they could pitch, hit for power and compete with strong opponents. At one point late in the season, their overall résumé and national metrics placed them in a position to dream about postseason baseball.

But Arkansas State went 12-18 in conference play, finishing one game behind Marshall for the final place in the 10-team tournament field.

In a league as deep as the Sun Belt, a strong overall record is not enough. Arkansas State must become a better weekend team.

That will be the defining challenge of 2027.