Dallas Baptist University’s baseball team will join the Pac-12 Conference after the 2025-2026 season.

DALLAS — Dallas Baptist University’s baseball program is set to join the revamped Pac-12 Conference at the conclusion of the 2025-2026 season, the school announced Thursday. 

The Patriots will become part of a seven-team lineup that includes Fresno State, Gonzaga, Oregon State, San Diego State, Texas State and Washington State. The move coincides with the launch of the restructured Pac-12.

“This is a historic step for DBU Baseball and Dallas Baptist University,” DBU President Dr. Adam C. Wright said in a press release. “The Pac-12’s tradition of excellence will provide our student-athletes a national platform worthy of their talent and character, while aligning with DBU’s mission to develop Christ-centered leadership who compete with integrity and distinction on the field, in the classroom, and in life.”

DBU has been one of the most successful mid-major programs in college baseball, consistently competing on the national stage in the postseason. The Patriots, who have been members of Conference USA since 2023, have made several NCAA Regional appearances and multiple Super Regional appearances. 

Under longtime head coach Dan Heefner, DBU has built a reputation as a pipeline for professional talent and one of Texas’ premier baseball programs, having boasted 150 MLB draft picks in its history. 

“We are excited for the challenge and the opportunity that the Pac-12 Conference brings to our program,” Heefner said in the release. “The Pac-12 features elite programs and passionate fan bases. Our guys embrace big moments, and we are grateful for the chance to represent DBU in the Pac-12.”

DBU will officially join the Pac-12 on July 1, 2026. 

The university’s athletic director, Matt Deuce, spoke to the media following the announcement Thursday and shared his excitement for the future while also recognizing the hurdles that lie ahead. 

“I think it’s safe to say that we know it’s going to be a challenge,” Deuce said about the move and the potential tougher road to the postseason. “But I think it’s also safe to say that if we didn’t think we could compete, we wouldn’t have made the move.”