Arcadia University's baseball team is gearing up for the 2024 season, securing the second position in the Middle Atlantic Conference Freedom (MAC Freedom) Preseason Coaches Poll. The conference office announced the ranking on Tuesday morning, setting the stage for a promising year ahead under the leadership of new head coach Chuck Thielmann.
Thielmann brings valuable experience from his role as an assistant coach at Stevens Institute of Technology. Over six seasons, including his last as the associate head coach, Thielmann played a significant role in practice planning, scouting, and game strategy, focusing on hitters, defense, and pitching development.
Arcadia is coming off back-to-back MAC Freedom Championships, defeating preseason poll top-selection Misericordia in the finals both years.
The Knights collected 32 victories before stumbling in the NCAA Division III tournament, dropping contests to Susquehanna and SUNY Brockport.
Outfielder Matt Donchez (.357, 29 RBIs, and 9 SB) and infielder Justin Massielo (.297, 32 RBIs, and 13 doubles) return to helm the offense.
The Knights will kick off their season on February 17 with a non-conference game against Ursinus, followed by league play starting on March 16 against Misericordia.
1. Misericordia - 47 points (6 FPV)
2. Arcadia - 41 (2)
3. Stevens - 37
4. Lebanon Valley - 35
5. DeSales - 24
6. Delaware Valley - 16
7. King's - 14
8. FDU-Florham - 10
