Mississippi State Enhances NCAA Tournament Bid Credentials with Series Win Over Tennessee

Starkville, MS - Mississippi State University's baseball team secured a crucial series victory over the University of Tennessee this past weekend, bolstering their resume as a potential host for the upcoming NCAA Tournament.

With the triumph, Mississippi State improved their overall record to 40-13 and their Southeastern Conference (SEC) mark to 21-9. They currently sit in second place in the SEC Western Division behind the University of Arkansas.

The Bulldogs' victory over Tennessee, who is ranked No. 14 in the country, was particularly significant due to the Volunteers' strong RPI (Rating Percentage Index). This victory helps to offset Mississippi State's three losses to in-state rival Ole Miss, which is also a highly ranked team.

"This was a big series for us," Mississippi State head coach Chris Lemonis remarked. "Tennessee is a great team, and we knew we needed to play well to get these wins. I'm proud of our guys for stepping up and delivering."

The series opener was a close affair, with Mississippi State emerging victorious with a 5-4 score. Landon Sims led the Bulldogs' offense with a 3-for-4 performance at the plate, including a key home run. On the mound, Christian MacLeod was the winning pitcher, allowing just one earned run over 6.1 innings.

In the second game, Mississippi State's bats came alive, pounding out 15 hits en route to a 10-2 victory. Josh Hatcher led the charge with a 4-for-4 day at the plate, including a home run. Will Bednar turned in another strong outing on the mound, limiting Tennessee to just two runs over 7.0 innings.

The series finale was a more defensive affair, with both teams scoring just one run. Mississippi State's sole run came on a home run by Tanner Leggett, while Tennessee's run was scored on a throwing error by Sims. JT Ginn and Sean Hunley combined to allow just four hits over 8.0 innings to secure the victory.

"Our pitching staff has been outstanding all weekend," Lemonis said. "They've kept us in games and given our offense a chance to win. It's a big reason why we've been able to have success this season."

With the series triumph, Mississippi State has now won five of their last six SEC games and has established themselves as one of the top teams in the conference. They will aim to continue their momentum as they travel to Auburn this weekend for a crucial three-game series against the Tigers.

Mississippi State's NCAA Tournament resume is impressive, with a top-25 RPI and a strong overall record. Their series victory over Tennessee further enhances their credentials and increases their chances of hosting a regional in the tournament.

The NCAA Tournament will be held from June 2-28, with the College World Series taking place from June 20-28 in Omaha, Nebraska. The field of 64 teams will be announced on Monday, May 29.

Mississippi State will be hoping to secure a top seed in the tournament, which would guarantee them home-field advantage throughout the regionals. They will need to continue playing well in the remaining weeks of the regular season to solidify their position as one of the nation's elite teams.