It’s been almost three years since Mississippi State Baseball won the 2021 National Championship, two seasons without joy or much to cheer about, with the Bulldogs chomping at the bits to return to the promised land of college baseball. Two years of wandering in the wilderness has led Mississippi State back to contention to host an NCAA Tournament Regional for the first time since winning the National Championship in 2021. What started with many questions has become one of the most fun teams in college baseball to be around. 

Following the series loss to Ole Miss a few weeks ago, a transformation took place in Mississippi State’s locker room. The team rediscovered the joy of playing college baseball, marking a significant shift in the program. The energy is palpable at Dudy Noble, and the Bulldogs are thriving on the support of their fans, with the echoes of cowbells reverberating across the stadium. 

Friday night was a testament to Mississippi State Baseball’s resurgence. In front of a nearly sold-out crowd, the Bulldogs dominated Alabama, sending a clear message that they are back and ready to make the last month of the regular season unforgettable. This victory was a glimpse of the team’s potential and a promise of more exciting games to come. 

Figuring out the pitching lineup with the weekend starters of Khal Stephen, Jurrangelo Cihntje, and Brooks Auger gives the Bulldogs an advantage on the mound against most programs in the Southeastern Conference. Combined with the offensive production from Dakota Jordan, Hunter Hines, Bryce Chance, David Mershon, and Connor Hujsak, Mississippi State has a ridiculous amount of run support across the lineup. 

Mississippi State has many ways to beat teams; they can beat you by scoring many runs, and then they can win on the mound. Mississippi State might not be the sexiest pick to win the SEC Tournament in Hoover or even reach Omaha, but the Bulldogs are on a path to hosting an NCAA Tournament Regional for the first time in two seasons. Unique things are happening in Starkville, Mississippi, as Dudy Noble has its life again. 

Mississippi State will look to take the series over Alabama on Saturday afternoon at Dudy Noble Field.