As the 2025 NSIC Baseball season approaches, the University of Sioux Falls Cougars are aiming to transform potential into results. Ranked 10th in the preseason coaches' poll—matching last year's finish—USF enters the season with a roster packed with experience, emerging talent, and a hunger to climb the standings in a fiercely competitive conference. For the full conference preview check out the 2025 NSIC Baseball Preseason Poll.

Head Coach Grant Hieb has high hopes for his squad. "I'm really excited about this year's team," Hieb shared. "We gained a lot of experience on the mound last year with a very young pitching staff. We also return a majority of our lineup and added some quality transfers to help add depth. I really like the make-up of this ballclub, and I am looking forward to seeing if we can move up the standings this spring in a very competitive league."

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Key Players to Watch

Ben Serie – Redshirt Senior (3B/1B)

One of the most dependable players for the Cougars, redshirt senior Ben Serie is set to anchor the team once again—this time at third base. Serie, a three-time team captain, has been a consistent force in the middle of the lineup since his freshman year. After three seasons at first base, he's poised to showcase his defensive skills at the hot corner.

"Ben is a leader on our team and a 3-time captain," said Hieb. "He's been one of the best defensive first basemen in the league for the last few years and will make the transition to third base this spring. He's been a staple in the middle of our lineup, and I expect him to have a big senior year."

With 154 career hits, 20 home runs, and a .294 batting average, Serie is as reliable as they come. Coupled with his impressive .980 career fielding percentage, he's a cornerstone for a team looking to take the next step.

Brady Baur – Sophomore (LHP)

Sophomore left-hander Brady Baur represents the Cougars' promising future. After logging 40 innings as a freshman, Baur returns with sharpened command and a deeper understanding of the game.

"Brady has worked hard to be one of our top pitchers coming into this season," Hieb noted. "He has a great arm and gained valuable experience starting as a freshman. He showed improved command of all his pitches this offseason, and I'm expecting it to translate into him having a big year."

Baur's ability to limit opposing hitters to a .257 batting average last year showcased his potential, and with continued development, he could emerge as a key contributor on the mound.

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Building Toward Success

With a strong core of returning players and a wave of talented newcomers, the Cougars are determined to outperform expectations. Coach Hieb's blend of experienced veterans and eager young players provides a foundation for success. The journey begins this spring as USF looks to make noise in one of Division II baseball's toughest conferences. The Cougars begin their season with a trip to Hawaii, where they'll take on University of Hawaii at Hilo in a five-game series starting on February 7th.

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