Strange times in the state

No NSU in the Southland Conference Tournament. No LSU in the Southeastern Conference Tournament.

What's up with Louisiana college baseball? Read Brian Vernellis' story in Wednesday's Times or on shreveporttimes.com and you'll see what it is.

It's called parity and it's happening across the country.

Take a look at last year's national champion Oregon State. The Beavers may not make the NCAA postseason this season. Perennial power Cal State Fullerton is a bubble team. And when was the last time you heard a peep out of Stanford on the national scene.

Down years aren't limited to just Louisiana teams. Talented players are emerging everywhere, giving every program a chance to be competitive on a national level.

So don't feel bad if you're team didn't have a great year this year. Redemption could be less than a calendar year away.