I posted this in the lounge, but seeing some of the butt clenching taking place on the baseball board, I'm copying it here too...
It's understandable that college baseball, more specifically Iowa baseball, has generated interest from more and more Hawkeye fans since Coach Heller's success. Many, this board included, have legit questions as to how the post season process works.
As someone who has been plugged into the sport at various levels, and LONG before it became truly popular on a national scale, hopefully this helps clear some things up....
A 10 member selection committee primarily comprised from athletic directors from across the country makes the decision on post season bids.
I've had the chance to talk with some of the members including the likes of Whit Babcock (Virginia Tech), Ray Tanner (South Carolina) and Joe Karlgaard (Rice) just to name a few.
As an aggregate, there is no question the SEC and ACC are considered the superior conferences. Last year was a great example: 10 teams from the SEC were awarded regional bids. One that wasn't: Kentucky. With an RPI of 31 and an SOS of 21. Overall record was decent--34-22. But did not make the post season.
Advice to all Iowa fans getting their "cheeks" tight over the RPI: Do yourself a favor and lighten up.
Their RPI came in at the end of the weekend in the high 50s. Yet what happened? They are now ranked in The Top 25.
I have been told by more than one person who has served on the selection committee in the past, there is more than just computer analytics that go into the decision making process. When it comes time to debate if a bid should go to the 4th or 5th place team in the Big Ten or PAC 12 or the 8th place team in the SEC, those at the table look at overall results. Who did you beat? When did you beat them? Were they at full strength? Were you? There are legitimate discussions that take place.
Right now, Iowa is sitting in a very good spot. But with a somewhat depleted roster it isn't likely they are going to go undefeated the rest of the season. While they don't have anymore marquis chances left on the regular season schedule, 5-6 wins in their last 7 games should set them up nicely. If they win at least a couple in the Big Ten Tournament...especially if they meet up with a Top 35 (Illinois, Indiana or Michigan) ...don't get overconfident, but don't doubt on Iowa getting a regional bid.
