KINGSTON, R.I. - Rhode Island was picked to finish eighth in the Atlantic 10 in 2026, according to the league's preseason coaches' poll released Friday.

Fordham was chosen to win the league, topping the poll with 75 points and five first-place nods. Defending champion Saint Louis and Dayton each picked up two first-place votes. The Flyers were second overall with 68 points, followed by SLU with 62 points.

Rhode Island - which opens the season next weekend at East Texas A&M's tournament - finished 14-35 overall and 7-18 in A-10 play last season in the first season under head coach Mike Coutts.

2026 Atlantic 10 Preseason Softball Poll
1. Fordham (5) - 75
2. Dayton (2) - 68
3. Saint Louis (2) - 62
4. Saint Joseph's - 50
5. George Washington - 44
6. Loyola Chicago - 38
7. George Mason - 34
8. Rhode Island - 20
9. St. Bonaventure - 14