Mississippi State Bulldogs Fall Ball Series Recap: Maroons Secure Victory Over Greys
The Maroon team secured a 5-3 victory over the Greys in the fall ball series at Dudy Noble Field. Left-hander Tomas Valincius pitched for the Greys, while Peter Mershon and Gehrig Frei made outs. Blake Bevis walked, stole second, and advanced to third on a wild pitch before Owen Jackson's groundout. Charlie Foster took the mound for the Maroons, retiring Bryce Chance, Ryder Woodson, and Reed Stallman in order.
In the following inning, Valincius returned to the mound, striking out Jacob Parker and getting Vytas Valincius out. Drew Wyers singled to left, but Andrew Raymond's hit ended the inning. Foster struck out James Nunnallee and got Kevin Milewski out before Chone James singled and advanced to second on an error. Nick Frontino's lineout ended the inning.
Despite consecutive losses to top-15 teams, Mississippi State still received ten votes in the polls, placing them at #35 in the Associated Press poll. The Bulldogs had a chance to earn a ranking after a successful non-conference schedule, including a win over a ranked team. However, losses to Tennessee and Texas A&M dropped them out of the coaches' poll.
Coach Jeff Lebby's team showed progress this season, attracting polling attention and playing seven ranked teams. Texas A&M and Tennessee, both ranked in the top 12, handed the Bulldogs their recent losses. Mississippi State's ranking hopes were dashed, but they continue to compete against tough opponents in the SEC.