New Texas Wood-Bat Baseball League Set to Launch in 2026
A new collegiate summer wood-bat baseball league is preparing to launch across Texas this summer, bringing college-level talent, regional rivalries, and a minor-league-style atmosphere to communities around the state. The new league, called the Cowboy Collegiate League, will begin play in 2026 as a developmental summer league for college baseball players.
The league is designed to give collegiate athletes additional summer reps using wooden bats while maintaining NCAA eligibility. Officials say the goal is to combine high-level baseball with affordable, community-focused entertainment throughout Texas.
League organizers say the Cowboy Collegiate League was established in 2024 and is entering its inaugural season in 2026. The league is affiliated with The Players League organization and is modeled after successful summer collegiate leagues around the country that have historically helped players develop for professional baseball opportunities.
Several teams and markets have already been announced across Texas.
Teams announced so far Southern / Central Texas markets Pearland Cobblers Galveston Sand Crabs Baytown Bulkheads Texas City Tall Boys Texas X's North Texas markets Denton Dillies Waco Woolly Wranglers Additional teams have also been planned or referenced in: Tyler Kilgore Weatherford The Woodlands Brenham
The league is expected to feature a summer schedule running from late May through July, with teams playing approximately 40 games split between home and away contests.
Unlike traditional minor league baseball, collegiate summer leagues allow active college players to continue developing during the offseason while preserving eligibility. Wood bats are used instead of aluminum bats, creating a style of play closer to professional baseball.
League officials say players are expected to come from colleges across Texas and around the country, with some teams utilizing local host families during the summer season.
The Cowboy Collegiate League enters a growing national landscape of summer collegiate baseball organizations that includes established leagues such as the Northwoods League, Coastal Plain League, and Texas Collegiate League.
League organizers have emphasized community engagement as a major focus, with teams planning themed nights, youth baseball involvement, local partnerships, and family-oriented entertainment alongside on-field competition.