Lots of chatter so some may need to brace themselves

[basedog]

Seems we will get a P5 HC for baseball. Plus he or they have been to CWS. We shall see. I?m good with ?he or they?.

It?s early and things could change.

[cheewgumm]

If it?s Butch Thompson I?d be happy

[KOdawg1]

BOC, Butch, Tom Walter, Skip Johnson

[cheewgumm]

BOC, Butch, Tom Walter

👍🏼

[Cloak]

Current AI Predictions with Odds -

1️⃣ Butch Thompson – Auburn HC +355 Mississippi native, ex-MSU pitching coach, and the name almost every insider mentions first.
2️⃣ Brian O’Connor – Virginia HC +455 Reports say State is willing to spend; chatter he’s listening, even after a polite public “I’m happy here.”
3️⃣ Tom Walter – Wake Forest HC +615 ACC power-builder; multiple hot boards have him climbing fast this week.
4️⃣ Nick Mingione – Kentucky HC +900 Nine years on MSU’s staff, fresh off SEC Coach-of-the-Year honors; buyout is real but not prohibitive.
5️⃣ Skip Johnson – Oklahoma HC +1150 Has history with AD Zac Selmon; Sooners resources good but not SEC-level—watch leverage plays.
6️⃣ Wes Johnson – Georgia HC +1325 Early favorite slid after he publicly said, “I love Georgia,” yet insiders say door isn’t fully shut.
7️⃣ Will Coggin – Georgia Associate HC +1565 Starkville native, MSU alum, lauded recruiter; gets serious buzz if big-name targets pass.
8️⃣ Justin Parker – MSU interim HC +1900; a regional push could make “remove the interim” a real option.
9️⃣ Chris Pollard – Duke HC +1900 Built Duke from the basement; holds a master’s from MSU and keeps surfacing on every board.
10 Willie Bloomquist – Arizona State HC +3235 Name floated by 247Sports but little traction so far.

[KOdawg1]

I'm obviously hoping for a BOC or a Bakich, but if I were a betting man, I'd lean towards Tom Walter.

Which isn't a bad hire. It's just not the grand slam some are hoping for.

[BigDawg81]

Kinda funny that this is brought up. I was told a couple of hours ago by someone that I have talked to for awhile now that we got our guy lined up. Those were his words. I don’t know if that’s true but we will see.

[Political Hack]

I would not be mad about a lot guys on that list, but BOC would be a grand slam imo.

[BuckyIsAB****]

Id be thrilled with Butch

[KOdawg1]

Id be thrilled with Butch

I've come around on Butch a lot. He makes sense here in a lot of ways. Only thing I don't like about Butch is the "WTF" years he has sprinkled in.

But he would do well here.

[DownwardDawg]

I'm sticking with my original prediction.
It's Butch.

[Cruz]

basedog mentioned "he or they" - so that could mean Tom Walter with Corey Muscara agreed to come as PC. That would not be a bad pull.

[KOdawg1]

basedog mentioned "he or they" - so that could mean Tom Walter with Corey Muscara agreed to come as PC. That would not be a bad pull.
I can't imagine WF lets Muscara walk without naming him the head coach.

[basedog]

One thing that is a fact, u don’t have to win your conference to win a Natty. Look at us and Ole Dixie, make a regional and get hot. If you make a super regional u got a 50% chance of going to CWS.

[DawgFromOxford]

basedog mentioned "he or they" - so that could mean Tom Walter with Corey Muscara agreed to come as PC. That would not be a bad pull.

Maybe it?s just me but I?d be a bit underwhelmed with Walter. Quick Outside looking in glance, he hasn?t done much of note in his tenure there until Muscara showed up. Sure Muscara can come with him but what happens when Muscara leaves for a head coaching job himself? Then we are left with a guy who had made a regional in 2 out of 11 years.

[ZedFedder]

Walter is the only guy mentioned I would not want.

[Coach34]

Butch would be a solid hire. But he is about to be 55 and to
Me it?s meh. Could we do worse? Absolutely

I?m hoping for a guy in his 40?s- the problem with that is that those guys don?t want to live in StarkVegas because of schools for their kids. It?s not a coincidence the 3 guys named in this thread are all in their 50?s. Older kids. Good strategy by the AD I guess

[Todd4State]

The thing about Butch is- and this is why he doesn't make sense to me IF this is true- he is very old school. Allegedly we are going to try to become more pro/modern with everything.

And that's part of the reason why I think Walter is being mentioned because Wake Forest has one of the best pitching labs/pitching coach/analytical team in the game but as others have said that is more Muscara and if we hire Walter I'm not sure that there is a guarantee that he would be coming with him and if he did come how long would he be here? That's a very legit concern.

That's also why I think Wes Johnson has been mentioned a lot because he is also very modern.

Guys like Brian O'Connor, Erik Bakich, and Pollard from Duke- if you hire one of them two of them are guys with Omaha experience and Pollard is a guy that has very little to work with at Duke and is an elite guy at identifying talent- those are guys that are probably going to feel like they entered the Death Star when they got here. I think that could be very appealing to one of them.

I don't think Skip Johnson is a real candidate personally. And actually Selmon being a Wake Forest alum might be why Walter is getting mentioned to a degree.

[Todd4State]

Butch would be a solid hire. But he is about to be 55 and to
Me it?s meh. Could we do worse? Absolutely

I?m hoping for a guy in his 40?s- the problem with that is that those guys don?t want to live in StarkVegas because of schools for their kids. It?s not a coincidence the 3 guys named in this thread are all in their 50?s. Older kids. Good strategy by the AD I guess

MSMS is moving to Starkville on campus. As far as schools go I'm not sure it would get much better than that.

[PGHBulldogBG]

I am good with any of those on the list except Walter or ASU coach who I know nothing about and not sure where his name came from. Walter had a 1 year fluke trip to Omaha because of his pitching coach. This would be bad and really make me question Selmon. I think anyone else on the list would be solid though

[Santiago]

Seems we will get a P5 HC for baseball. Plus he or they have been to CWS. We shall see. I?m good with ?he or they?.

It?s early and things could change.

As long as he went to the CWS as HC, and not the crap our media tried to salvage with Cohen's comments by saying Lemonis went multiple times.
"He or They".... Basedog are you getting into pronouns these days ? ***

Edit: I hope it is not Walter. If so, then fine, but while we get to post our preferences, hoping for a few others on the list.

[basedog]

As long as he went to the CWS as HC, and not the crap our media tried to salvage with Cohen's comments by saying Lemonis went multiple times.
"He or They".... Basedog are you getting into pronouns these days ? ***

Edit: I hope it is not Walter. If so, then fine, but while we get to post our preferences, hoping for a few others on the list.

LOL, I think we have two that are highest on the list. I think so far, we have a good back up plan something Cohen never had.

I'm with you on HC with CWS experience, to me that says a lot. I'm not worried about a Coach being in their 50's as long as they are driven and motivated. From what I read about Butch was interesting saying he is quite and nice but has a burning desire to win and is a good recruiter. Btw he has the potential number one draft for MLB on his team right now. I like the fact he knows the Sec and our tradition.

I really like BOC, but I'm not sold on him coming to Msu, But I would take him for sure with his experience, his CWS experience is another plus.

I also have grown on Wes Johnson, he has proven he can win.

Walters may be ok but he is way down my list.

One thing about Selmon, he keeps things out of the media for a reason. I don't think he is nearly as bad as many ED posters say. What I like about him he doesn't draw attention to himself.

P.S. 34 my man, being in your 50's is not old for a baseball coach. I'm in my 70's and that is the new 50's! Hell I rode my bike 34 miles the other day, LOL! Stay out of Wendy's and the bars and eat right, living in Small Towns is much safer than big cities!

[Leroy Jenkins]

We just fired a guy with CWS experience. It doesn't carry much weight for me.

[bulldogcountry1]

The thing about Butch is- and this is why he doesn't make sense to me IF this is true- he is very old school. Allegedly we are going to try to become more pro/modern with everything.




Yeah, Butch's age and a couple down years on his recent resume worries me. You can count on one hand the number of coaches who have had sustained success past their mid-50s in the modern era. Plus, everything has changed so much lately. How much is he going to want to embrace it all and keep evolving? Like everyone else, I want stability in the program. It's critical. Are we going to be doing this again in 5 years because Butch has had enough?

I'm torn, because Butch and BOC are among the best in the game NOW. It seems silly to not be excited about either of them possibly being the next coach. I just cant help but wonder where they are on the "give a crap" timeline plot.

[Santiago]

LOL, I think we have two that are highest on the list. I think so far, we have a good back up plan something Cohen never had.

I'm with you on HC with CWS experience, to me that says a lot. I'm not worried about a Coach being in their 50's as long as they are driven and motivated. From what I read about Butch was interesting saying he is quite and nice but has a burning desire to win and is a good recruiter. Btw he has the potential number one draft for MLB on his team right now. I like the fact he knows the Sec and our tradition.

I really like BOC, but I'm not sold on him coming to Msu, But I would take him for sure with his experience, his CWS experience is another plus.

I also have grown on Wes Johnson, he has proven he can win.

Walters may be ok but he is way down my list.

One thing about Selmon, he keeps things out of the media for a reason. I don't think he is nearly as bad as many ED posters say. What I like about him he doesn't draw attention to himself.

P.S. 34 my man, being in your 50's is not old for a baseball coach. I'm in my 70's and that is the new 50's! Hell I rode my bike 34 miles the other day, LOL! Stay out of Wendy's and the bars and eat right, living in Small Towns is much safer than big cities!

Northeast MS is built different.
I like Butch, and why I would have no big issue with Coggin. Lots of people from that area are driven in life.

[Santiago]

LOL, I think we have two that are highest on the list. I think so far, we have a good back up plan something Cohen never had.

I'm with you on HC with CWS experience, to me that says a lot. I'm not worried about a Coach being in their 50's as long as they are driven and motivated. From what I read about Butch was interesting saying he is quite and nice but has a burning desire to win and is a good recruiter. Btw he has the potential number one draft for MLB on his team right now. I like the fact he knows the Sec and our tradition.

I really like BOC, but I'm not sold on him coming to Msu, But I would take him for sure with his experience, his CWS experience is another plus.

I also have grown on Wes Johnson, he has proven he can win.

Walters may be ok but he is way down my list.

One thing about Selmon, he keeps things out of the media for a reason. I don't think he is nearly as bad as many ED posters say. What I like about him he doesn't draw attention to himself.

P.S. 34 my man, being in your 50's is not old for a baseball coach. I'm in my 70's and that is the new 50's! Hell I rode my bike 34 miles the other day, LOL! Stay out of Wendy's and the bars and eat right, living in Small Towns is much safer than big cities!

Basedog, did you ride 34 miles as a tribute to C34?

[Dawgface]

Basedog, did you ride 34 miles as a tribute to C34?

Good pick up.

[shoeless joe]

I'd be thrilled with butch. if you've ever been in a room with him when he talks baseball that dude gets it and has a fire and the knowledge to go with it. i don't know him personally but have been around him several times and its no wonder he can recruit while at the same time isn't abrasive.

the "old school, can he adapt" concern may be a legit one BUT one thing to remember about that '13 team is how butch and cohen basically invented the "opener" role that then became the thing to do in pro ball. now, adapting game plans is different than adapting to NIL and the portal but he's shown he's not stuck in tradition and can't adjust in order to win.

there's also some other names on these lists i'd be highly interested in and think would be great hires...BOC, bakich, and even coggin would get me excited. but no doubt i'd take butch and run with it for the next 10 years.

[Saltydog]

I'd be thrilled with butch. if you've ever been in a room with him when he talks baseball that dude gets it and has a fire and the knowledge to go with it. i don't know him personally but have been around him several times and its no wonder he can recruit while at the same time isn't abrasive.

the "old school, can he adapt" concern may be a legit one BUT one thing to remember about that '13 team is how butch and cohen basically invented the "opener" role that then became the thing to do in pro ball. now, adapting game plans is different than adapting to NIL and the portal but he's shown he's not stuck in tradition and can't adjust in order to win.

there's also some other names on these lists i'd be highly interested in and think would be great hires...BOC, bakich, and even coggin would get me excited. but no doubt i'd take butch and run with it for the next 10 years.

I think that's what a lot of people don't know or understand about Butch. He's a Cohen protege' and we all know Cohen was the IB. I know Butch and he's one fierce competitor. He might not be a homerun hire but he'd be a triple IMO. He'd do well here with the support he would get.

[bulldogcountry1]

I think that's what a lot of people don't know or understand about Butch. He's a Cohen protege' and we all know Cohen was the IB. I know Butch and he's one fierce competitor. He might not be a homerun hire but he'd be a triple IMO. He'd do well here with the support he would get.

It would be nice to stick it to Cohen and make him have to hire another HC.

[basedog]

Basedog, did you ride 34 miles as a tribute to C34?

LMBO, actually it was 34.2 miles.

[gtowndawg]

I?m hoping for a guy in his 40?s- the problem with that is that those guys don?t want to live in StarkVegas because of schools for their kids. It?s not a coincidence the 3 guys named in this thread are all in their 50?s. Older kids. Good strategy by the AD I guess

The elephant in the room I've never wanted to bring up. I'm not trying to step on toes, I'm sure Starkville High and Starkville Academy are fine schools, but most of these coaches are coming from locations that have legit, well known private schools and that's the type schools they are looking for. My boys attend a private school here in Memphis that have athletic facilities closer to college than high school. It's a big school with a large campus with everything you can possibly imagine. I'm not saying that to brag, we are beyond blessed that's where they attend but I imagine coaches who have money, are looking for that same type of education and facility for their children and unfortunately Starkville just doesn't offer that.

[Cooterpoot]

Butch would be the normal MSU hire. Safe and with a MSU connection. I wouldn't hate it, but it wouldn't excite me either.

[Goldendawg]

Seems we will get a P5 HC for baseball. Plus he or they have been to CWS. We shall see. I?m good with ?he or they?.

It?s early and things could change.

Base, did John Cohen say this again?*****. Seriously, hope this is true this time. Hail State!

[Santiago]

LMBO, actually it was 34.2 miles.

A new nickname? Coach34.2? ***

[Coach34]

LMBO, actually it was 34.2 miles.

I inspire people. It's a gift

[Santiago]

Rosebowl has been holding firm that Butch is not a possibility. Assuming that comes from Cohen.

[Coach34]

Rosebowl has been holding firm that Butch is not a possibility. Assuming that comes from Cohen.

It's hard for me to see an SEC coach leaving to come to State but obviously anything can happen.

If we are indeed getting an experienced HC with CWS experience then to me that sings "disgruntled ACC coach" that sees the coming future of college baseball as very SEC heavy

[Bert Stare]

It's still Pollard from Duke. All the rest of this is just smoke signals from the dangerous radical left media talking heads.

[Santiago]

The elephant in the room I've never wanted to bring up. I'm not trying to step on toes, I'm sure Starkville High and Starkville Academy are fine schools, but most of these coaches are coming from locations that have legit, well known private schools and that's the type schools they are looking for. My boys attend a private school here in Memphis that have athletic facilities closer to college than high school. It's a big school with a large campus with everything you can possibly imagine. I'm not saying that to brag, we are beyond blessed that's where they attend but I imagine coaches who have money, are looking for that same type of education and facility for their children and unfortunately Starkville just doesn't offer that.

This is why Coggin does not bother me at all as a HC. He grew up wanting this, MSU baseball, and sees this job for what we see it also.

[Cooterpoot]

It's still Pollard from Duke. All the rest of this is just smoke signals from the dangerous radical left media talking heads.

I've been told to watch for the name Lou Brown

[KB21]

Current AI Predictions with Odds -

1️⃣ Butch Thompson ? Auburn HC +355 Mississippi native, ex-MSU pitching coach, and the name almost every insider mentions first.
2️⃣ Brian O?Connor ? Virginia HC +455 Reports say State is willing to spend; chatter he?s listening, even after a polite public ?I?m happy here.?
3️⃣ Tom Walter ? Wake Forest HC +615 ACC power-builder; multiple hot boards have him climbing fast this week.
4️⃣ Nick Mingione ? Kentucky HC +900 Nine years on MSU?s staff, fresh off SEC Coach-of-the-Year honors; buyout is real but not prohibitive.
5️⃣ Skip Johnson ? Oklahoma HC +1150 Has history with AD Zac Selmon; Sooners resources good but not SEC-level?watch leverage plays.
6️⃣ Wes Johnson ? Georgia HC +1325 Early favorite slid after he publicly said, ?I love Georgia,? yet insiders say door isn?t fully shut.
7️⃣ Will Coggin ? Georgia Associate HC +1565 Starkville native, MSU alum, lauded recruiter; gets serious buzz if big-name targets pass.
8️⃣ Justin Parker ? MSU interim HC +1900; a regional push could make ?remove the interim? a real option.
9️⃣ Chris Pollard ? Duke HC +1900 Built Duke from the basement; holds a master?s from MSU and keeps surfacing on every board.
10 Willie Bloomquist ? Arizona State HC +3235 Name floated by 247Sports but little traction so far.

What AI did you use to get those odds?

[Coach34]

Dont look now but Virginia is projected to be in the field this week

[Brobi-wan]

I would be underwhelmed by Butch. With the weird years of failure sprinkled in, what makes him different than Lemonis?

[Todd4State]

Rosebowl has been holding firm that Butch is not a possibility. Assuming that comes from Cohen.

Probably so. Cohen will probably bend over backwards to keep him.

[Todd4State]

I would be underwhelmed by Butch. With the weird years of failure sprinkled in, what makes him different than Lemonis?

I agree.

I'm also concerned he would bring Foxhall with him.

[Todd4State]

I've been told to watch for the name Lou Brown

I heard he put Selmon on hold because he was trying to sell someone a set of whitewalls.

[Cloak]

What AI did you use to get those odds?

Gpt o3. The advanced reasoning model, its much better than 4o.

[KB21]

I would be underwhelmed by Butch. With the weird years of failure sprinkled in, what makes him different than Lemonis?

Butch has Auburn in a great position to go to Omaha for the third time since 2019, and he didn't inherit an Omaha team. If they make it this year, it will be the third time under Butch. Prior to Butch, Auburn had only 4 appearances in Omaha total in the history of the program.

[basedog]

I inspire people. It's a gift

LOL, well 34.2 it is.

[basedog]

It's hard for me to see an SEC coach leaving to come to State but obviously anything can happen.

If we are indeed getting an experienced HC with CWS experience then to me that sings "disgruntled ACC coach" that sees the coming future of college baseball as very SEC heavy

I think the kicker about Butch is he is from the area, his mother lives by herself now plus he knows our culture and tradition. I would love BOC as HC. If it is him I think we will know sooner as I don't see them making much noise in a regional if they get in. Butch has a chance to go far in the tourney.

[BeardoMSU]

I've been told to watch for the name Lou Brown

Video of Selmon call leaked***


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vBBbrYpeqZY&ab_channel=VivNation

[Coach34]

I think the kicker about Butch is he is from the area, his mother lives by herself now plus he knows our culture and tradition. I would love BOC as HC. If it is him I think we will know sooner as I don't see them making much noise in a regional if they get in. Butch has a chance to go far in the tourney.

and that could very well be the case. We'll see

[State82]

I'm also concerned he would bring Foxhall with him.

This would make it a no go for me.

[BigDawg81]

Apparently, Ok State coach Josh Holliday has entered the chat.

[Todd4State]

Apparently, Ok State coach Josh Holliday has entered the chat.

It's like a new name every day.

It's going to be funny when we do hire Brian O'Connor.

[BrunswickDawg]

Apparently, Ok State coach Josh Holliday has entered the chat.

That would be very interesting

[basedog]

It's great seeing many D1 P5 HC's mentioned, true or not.

[Commercecomet24]

Apparently, Ok State coach Josh Holliday has entered the chat.

He's a good one with lots of ties to mlb as well.

[Todd4State]

He's a good one with lots of ties to mlb as well.

It would surprise me because he is a big time Oklahoma State guy and his Dad coached there.

Now maybe he wants more money and resources but Oklahoma State is a quality baseball program.

[Santiago]

He's a good one with lots of ties to mlb as well.

Am I wrong to think he is a Tier 1 coach.

[basedog]

He's a good one with lots of ties to mlb as well.

I agree as he would be a good hire also. Hope all is well with you!

[Todd4State]

It's great seeing many D1 P5 HC's mentioned, true or not.

We're definitely not going to see Selmon get on the radio and basically proclaim that we're getting Jim
Schlossnagle for sure.

[basedog]

We're definitely not going to see Selmon get on the radio and basically proclaim that we're getting Jim
Schlossnagle for sure.

I think many fans aren't sure about Selmon is he isn't in the media news and is way more private than most AD's we have ever had.

[HoopsDawg]

Am I wrong to think he is a Tier 1 coach.

Holliday? He is elite.

[sandjunky]

Am I wrong to think he is a Tier 1 coach.

He would be a heck of a pull

[msudawg1200]

Apparently, Ok State coach Josh Holliday has entered the chat.
He's Cowboy through and through like Gundy on the football side. He ain't going anywhere.

[Thick]

We?re hiring Parker.

[Cowbell]

He's Cowboy through and through like Gundy on the football side. He ain't going anywhere.

This. They are entrenched in the Stillwater community. And he is no where close to elite.

[Coach34]

We?re hiring Parker.

We are definitely helping some coaches get raises

[BeardoMSU]

We?re hiring Parker.

Hendo won 2 games in OMAHA and coached 98% of a season after his HC was fired....and we didn't hire him. Stop.

[Coach34]

Hendo won 2 games in OMAHA and coached 98% of a season after his HC was fired....and we didn't hire him. Stop.

Somebody has to take that 750K salary our budget really wants to pay

[Brobi-wan]

Somebody has to take that 750K salary our budget really wants to pay

If you’re right, we’re not big time and never will be in anything.

[BeardoMSU]

Somebody has to take that 750K salary our budget really wants to pay

Oh, so now the walking back starts, lol.

[Coach34]

Oh, so now the walking back starts, lol.

I posted about how we are bottom in the SEC in football earnings. We lose money in baseball now- which we did not used to do. Thats how Polk got famous. He showed coaches how baseball could make money

If you were doing our athletic budget- you would be taking a Tums on a daily basis.

We may be able to hire an ACC coach pissed because of money- but anybody thinking we are about to shell out 10MM or more to get a primetime coach is delusional. ACC pissyness is our best bet for veteran successful coach. Our one languishing hope is Butch wants to move home after moving his family over there. Good luck

[Thick]

Hendo won 2 games in OMAHA and coached 98% of a season after his HC was fired....and we didn't hire him. Stop.

If you think it?s not being considered, better think again. There?s some smoke behind it.

[maroonmania]

If you think it?s not being considered, better think again. There?s some smoke behind it.

If we are going to do that we might as well hire Will Coggin. At least I know Coggin is a recruiting dynamo. Not sure what we get there with Parker. Parker's failure to get another stud pitcher or two out of the portal during the offseason is a big reason why Lemonis is no longer here.

[Todd4State]

If you think it?s not being considered, better think again. There?s some smoke behind it.

The thing that makes that really bad is you have Texas A&M sitting over here with the assistant that they promoted from within failing miserably.

It seems like this comes up until we play a baseball game and there everyone realizes what a bad idea it would be.

[Todd4State]

If we are going to do that we might as well hire Will Coggin. At least I know Coggin is a recruiting dynamo. Not sure what we get there with Parker. Parker's failure to get another stud pitcher or two out of the portal during the offseason is a big reason why Lemonis is no longer here.

Exactly and if this is booster driven (which I have no idea why the hell Selmon would listen to those boosters anyway) I'm sure they would agree to Coggin at head coach and Parker as pitching coach.

[The Federalist Engineer]

Somebody has to take that 750K salary our budget really wants to pay

If 750 is all the cheddar, then there is not any ACC HC coming. Coggin it is with Parker next man up.

He wouldn't be worst guy on the list, better than the ASU bum or the Wake Forest duffer.

[HoopsDawg]

You guys really don't know ball if you would hire any assistant over Elander.

[Todd4State]

You guys really don't know ball if you would hire any assistant over Elander.

I think he would be a MAJOR risk for us honestly. I think he will be a good head coach but I think our job is simply too big for him.

Also, in SEC play they are hitting 10 points lower than MSU is right now and they are 15th in the SEC in defense and I wonder how much of that is on Elander?

We also don't know who is pitching coach would be- likely would keep Parker if I had to guess- and he has never managed a game before.

Based on their stats this year there isn't much difference between Elander and Jake Gautreau.

It just feels like Elander is a guy that MSU would hire and it would get praised at first and then he would implode. And then we're right back where we started and wondering why we didn't notice some things earlier.

[Coursesuper]

Exactly and if this is booster driven (which I have no idea why the hell Selmon would listen to those boosters anyway) I'm sure they would agree to Coggin at head coach and Parker as pitching coach.

Well I've got news for you this is very booster driven, just not by the ones who gave us the current shit show. These guys know baseball and are still very connected to it.

[Todd4State]

Well I've got news for you this is very booster driven, just not by the ones who gave us the current shit show. These guys know baseball and are still very connected to it.

I'm good with those boosters.

For now.

[gtowndawg]

Well I've got news for you this is very booster driven, just not by the ones who gave us the current shit show. These guys know baseball and are still very connected to it.

I assume this is referencing former players perhaps that are now boosters? If so, that's a good thing I guess.

[Todd4State]

I assume this is referencing former players perhaps that are now boosters? If so, that's a good thing I guess.

If it was the Madison boosters they would be pushing Parker and saying that we need to keep him to keep the recruiting class together.**

[Coursesuper]

I assume this is referencing former players perhaps that are now boosters? If so, that's a good thing I guess.

Yes, to an extent but they all have been connected to the program. One of our biggest issues that many former players have not been close enough to the baseball program for one reason or other. This is something that has to be addressed and quickly, the days of a developmental program are gone it’s a pure and simple arms race now and we need every available penny.

[KB21]

Aaron Fitt from D1 Baseball thinks Mark Wasikowski is the guy we will ultimately hire.

[CaptainObvious]

Aaron Fitt from D1 Baseball thinks Mark Wasikowski is the guy we will ultimately hire.

Is there not a top tier coach named Smith or Jones available? 😂😂😂

I'm not sure we have anyone at State who could pronounce this guys last name! Can we give him a nickname like Coach K got? Maybe Coach Ski!

[Coach34]

If 750 is all the cheddar, then there is not any ACC HC coming. Coggin it is with Parker next man up.

He wouldn't be worst guy on the list, better than the ASU bum or the Wake Forest duffer.

I’m not saying that is all we will pay. I’m saying that is what we would rather pay given the choice. We are poor. We are having to rely heavily on our boosters to fund all this. Got to pay Lemon off. Cheese. GoTro. Parker as well if he is not retained. Then start paying the new guys.

Can we pay 1.5 per? Yes but we really don’t want to

[TrapGame]

Is there not a top tier coach named Smith or Jones available? ������

I'm not sure we have anyone at State who could pronounce this guys last name! Can we give him a nickname like Coach K got? Maybe Coach Ski!

I'd go with Coach Was.

[Commercecomet24]

I agree as he would be a good hire also. Hope all is well with you!

Yes sir! Doing well, hope y'all are too! Hope Cade is recovering well and about ready to go again!

[ZedFedder]

I would not be upset with the Oregon coach.

[KB21]

Aaron Fitt also mentioned Chris Pollard, but he also says that Chris really likes living in Durham and may not want to uproot his children.

[The Federalist Engineer]

Is there not a top tier coach named Smith or Jones available? ������

I'm not sure we have anyone at State who could pronounce this guys last name! Can we give him a nickname like Coach K got? Maybe Coach Ski!

Wasikowski? This dude was expelled from school for cheating during a frat competition.

https://i.ytimg.com/vi/TkLzoGq1Vks/maxresdefault.jpg

[Coach34]

Aaron Fitt from D1 Baseball thinks Mark Wasikowski is the guy we will ultimately hire.

I could see it. Makes about 700K at Oregon. We could pay 1MM per with incentives to give him a nice raise and saves us money

[Cooterpoot]

If you think it?s not being considered, better think again. There?s some smoke behind it.

No there isn't. Not even an afterthought

[Cooterpoot]

Aaron Fitt from D1 Baseball thinks Mark Wasikowski is the guy we will ultimately hire.

Can't remember who said he should be the guy;;;;; oh wait, me lol. But I'm still on the O'Connor boat until it's not him. Too many heavy hints to ignore and a low ass buyout. Some of these high buyout guys people mention aren't happening.

[Cowbell]

I posted about how we are bottom in the SEC in football earnings. We lose money in baseball now- which we did not used to do. Thats how Polk got famous. He showed coaches how baseball could make money

If you were doing our athletic budget- you would be taking a Tums on a daily basis.

We may be able to hire an ACC coach pissed because of money- but anybody thinking we are about to shell out 10MM or more to get a primetime coach is delusional. ACC pissyness is our best bet for veteran successful coach. Our one languishing hope is Butch wants to move home after moving his family over there. Good luck

Baseball does not lose money. I don't know why so many people don't understand this. We are paying off the new stadium which is an asset on the balance sheet. We are trading cash for equity and that means we are profitable.

[Cowbell]

No there isn't. Not even an afterthought

There is real smoke behind it but from a different camp than where you get your info. Also the same camp that says no way are we getting O'Conner.

[Cooterpoot]

There is real smoke behind it but from a different camp than where you get your info. Also the same camp that says no way are we getting O'Conner.

We aren't hiring Parker bud. It's not just off the table, it's in the garbage. Your camp is crazy as hell. I have nothing on O'Connor but it's loud enough and he's talked to us already too. I'd take Was or O'Connor and not bat an eye.

[maroonmania]

Baseball does not lose money. I don't know why so many people don't understand this. We are paying off the new stadium which is an asset on the balance sheet. We are trading cash for equity and that means we are profitable.

All the original seat licenses on the new stadium are up this year I believe. If baseball isn't making money now it soon will be for sure.

[Santiago]

All the original seat licenses on the new stadium are up this year I believe. If baseball isn't making money now it soon will be for sure.

When are those licenses up for purchase?? I want in on at least 2

[KB21]

When are those licenses up for purchase?? I want in on at least 2

Yeah. I'm going to get in on that as well.

[Cowbell]

We aren't hiring Parker bud. It's not just off the table, it's in the garbage. Your camp is crazy as hell. I have nothing on O'Connor but it's loud enough and he's talked to us already too. I'd take Was or O'Connor and not bat an eye.

I didn't say we were hiring Parker. And this isn't my camp. Just passing along info.

[Todd4State]

Baseball does not lose money. I don't know why so many people don't understand this. We are paying off the new stadium which is an asset on the balance sheet. We are trading cash for equity and that means we are profitable.

Say it louder for the people in the back. THANK YOU!!!!

[confucius say]

All the original seat licenses on the new stadium are up this year I believe. If baseball isn't making money now it soon will be for sure.

No. They were for 10 seasons with the first season being 2019. So they are good through the 2028 season.
And they were a bargain. Only $1800 for 10 seasons. That's $180 a season for a chairback. And then $400 for a season ticket. So $580 gets you a chairback seat with a ticket to every home game. Best deal on campus.

[confucius say]

When are those licenses up for purchase?? I want in on at least 2

Good luck. Not sure if people who already have them will get first right of refusal or if it will be completely reseated in accordance with bulldog club rank.

[Matt3467]

For fun this what Grok (AI) thinks:

Since there are no publicly available betting odds for the next Mississippi State baseball coach as of my last update, I’ll provide a speculative analysis based on available information from web sources and posts on X, combined with my own reasoning. Mississippi State fired Chris Lemonis on April 28, 2025, and the search for a new head coach is ongoing, with Athletic Director Zac Selmon emphasizing a desire for a "splash hire" to restore the program’s prominence. Below, I’ll list potential candidates, assign speculative odds based on their fit, and include my own take on the situation.

Speculative Odds for Mississippi State Baseball Coach

These odds are not based on bookmaker data but are my estimates derived from the likelihood of each candidate being selected, considering their track record, connections to Mississippi State, and the program’s goals.

Brian O’Connor (Virginia) - 15% (6.67/1)
Why? O’Connor is a high-profile name with a stellar resume, including a 2015 national championship and seven College World Series (CWS) appearances with Virginia. Sources indicate he’s a person of interest for Mississippi State, and the program’s resources and fanbase could lure him despite his long tenure at Virginia.
Pros: Proven winner, national championship pedigree, and experience in a competitive conference (ACC). Mississippi State’s financial commitment (potentially matching or exceeding Lemonis’ $1.325M salary) could be appealing.
Cons: O’Connor has deep roots at Virginia (22 years), and leaving for another program, even a prestigious one like MSU, might be a tough sell unless he’s seeking a new challenge.
My Take: O’Connor would be a true splash hire, rivaling Texas’ hiring of Jim Schlossnagle. However, his long-term commitment to Virginia and lack of direct Mississippi ties make this a long shot, though not impossible given MSU’s resources.

Butch Thompson (Auburn) - 20% (5/1)
Why? Thompson, an Aberdeen, Mississippi native, served as MSU’s pitching coach from 2009-15, contributing to a 2013 CWS runner-up finish. He’s led Auburn to two CWS appearances (2019, 2022) and has the Tigers ranked No. 8 in 2025. His Mississippi roots and prior success in Starkville make him a fan favorite.
Pros: Strong SEC experience, familiarity with MSU’s program, and a track record of building competitive teams. His local ties could energize the fanbase.
Cons: Auburn is a strong program, and leaving a successful SEC job for another might require significant incentives. His loyalty to Auburn could be a hurdle.
My Take: Thompson feels like the most logical choice due to his MSU history and SEC success. He’d be a homecoming hire, but Auburn’s recent investment in him (new contract after 2022) might make negotiations tricky.

Wes Johnson (Georgia) - 18% (5.56/1)
Why? Johnson was MSU’s pitching coach in 2016, helping win an SEC title. In just two seasons at Georgia, he’s led the Bulldogs to a Super Regional and has them on track for a national seed in 2025. His pitching expertise and portal recruiting skills are notable.
Pros: Recent MSU connection, proven ability to elevate programs quickly, and familiarity with SEC competition. His move from LSU to Georgia shows he’s open to new challenges.
Cons: Georgia is a top-tier job, and Johnson’s short tenure there (since 2023) might mean he’s not ready to jump again so soon.
My Take: Johnson’s rapid success at Georgia and prior MSU stint make him a strong candidate. He’s a rising star, but I wonder if MSU might prioritize a more established name for a bigger splash.

Nick Mingione (Kentucky) - 15% (6.67/1)
Why? Mingione was an assistant at MSU from 2006-13, contributing to the 2013 CWS finals and 2016 SEC title. He’s transformed Kentucky into a consistent contender, reaching the 2024 CWS. His long history with MSU makes him a natural fit.
Pros: Deep ties to Starkville, SEC head coaching experience, and a proven track record of building a program from scratch at Kentucky.
Cons: Mingione’s success at Kentucky (new stadium, recent CWS appearance) might make him reluctant to leave unless MSU offers a significant upgrade.
My Take: Mingione’s emotional connection to MSU could sway him, but his commitment to Kentucky, where he’s built a legacy, might outweigh nostalgia. He’s a safe, popular choice but not the flashiest.

Erik Bakich (Clemson) - 12% (8.33/1)
Why? Bakich led Michigan to the 2019 CWS finals and has Clemson trending toward a national seed in 2025. His ability to build winners at multiple programs makes him a high-profile target.
Pros: Postseason success, experience across different programs, and a reputation as a program builder. MSU’s resources could appeal over Clemson’s.
Cons: Clemson is a strong ACC job, and Bakich’s recent success there might make him hesitant to move unless MSU offers a massive deal.
My Take: Bakich is a dark horse but a realistic splash hire. His lack of Mississippi ties might make him less appealing to fans compared to Thompson or Mingione, but his resume is undeniable.

Skip Johnson (Oklahoma) - 10% (10/1)
Why? Johnson led Oklahoma to the 2022 CWS and was at the school during Zac Selmon’s tenure there. His associate head coach, Reggie Willits, also has MSU interest, but Johnson’s head coaching experience stands out.
Pros: CWS experience, Oklahoma connection with Selmon, and a solid track record. Could be a bold hire from outside the SEC.
Cons: Oklahoma’s recent success and lack of Mississippi ties might make this a tougher sell. Less flashy than SEC names like Thompson or O’Connor.
My Take: Johnson’s Oklahoma connection with Selmon is intriguing, but he feels like a fallback option if bigger names decline. His CWS run is a plus, but he’s not the splashiest hire.

Cliff Godwin (East Carolina) - 8% (12.5/1)
Why? Godwin, a former assistant at Vanderbilt, LSU, and Ole Miss, has built East Carolina into a mid-major powerhouse with multiple super regional appearances. An X post from April 9, 2025, predicted he’d be MSU’s coach for 2026.
Pros: Proven mid-major success, SEC assistant experience, and a reputation as a top coach ready for a Power 4 job.
Cons: No head coaching experience in a major conference, which might not align with MSU’s “splash hire” goal. Less proven than SEC candidates.
My Take: Godwin’s a fan favorite on X, but I’m skeptical he’s the top choice. He’d be a riskier hire compared to proven SEC coaches, though his upside is high.

Tom Walter (Wake Forest) - 7% (14.29/1)
Why? Walter has built Wake Forest into an ACC contender, reaching the 2023 CWS. Sources suggest he could be interested in MSU’s resources.
Pros: Sustainable success at a resource-constrained program, CWS experience, and potential to thrive with MSU’s budget.
Cons: Wake Forest’s recent success might keep him in place, and he lacks SEC or Mississippi ties.
My Take: Walter’s an under-the-radar candidate who could surprise, but his lack of regional connections makes him less likely than Thompson or Mingione.

Other (Field) - 15% (6.67/1)
Why? Other names like Dan Heefner (Dallas Baptist), Chris Pollard (Duke), Christian Ostrander (Southern Miss), or assistants like Josh Elander (Tennessee) have been mentioned. An unexpected hire, possibly a rising assistant or mid-major coach, is always possible.
My Take: The field accounts for the unpredictability of coaching searches. Selmon’s history of hiring first-time head coaches (e.g., Jeff Lebby) suggests he might take a chance on a rising star like Elander or a mid-major coach like Ostrander if bigger names fall through.

My Speculation

Mississippi State’s job is one of the best in college baseball, with a $55M stadium, top attendance records, and significant NIL resources. Selmon’s track record suggests he values familiarity (e.g., hiring Lebby from Oklahoma) and isn’t afraid to give first-time head coaches a shot. However, the emphasis on a “splash hire” points to a proven head coach with CWS experience, likely from the SEC or a comparable Power 4 program.

Top Pick: I lean toward Butch Thompson as the most likely hire. His Mississippi roots, prior success as an MSU assistant, and current success at Auburn make him a perfect fit. He checks the boxes for both familiarity and splash potential, and his return to Starkville would resonate with fans. However, if Selmon swings big, Brian O’Connor could be the home run hire, though prying him from Virginia is a tall order.

Dark Horse: Josh Elander, Tennessee’s assistant, is a name to watch. At 34, he’s a rising star who helped Tennessee win the 2024 national title. Selmon’s willingness to hire unproven head coaches could make Elander a bold, forward-thinking choice, especially if top SEC coaches stay put.

Wild Card Scenario: If Selmon taps his Oklahoma connections again, Skip Johnson or even Reggie Willits could emerge, though Willits’ lack of head coaching experience makes him less likely. Alternatively, a mid-major coach like Cliff Godwin could gain traction if fan sentiment on X influences the search.

Caveats

The search is still in its early stages, and no clear frontrunner has emerged publicly. Names like Tony Vitello (Tennessee) are considered unrealistic.
Mississippi State’s financial muscle (potentially exceeding $1.325M in salary) and fan support make it a top-tier job, but competition from other SEC openings or coaches’ loyalty to current programs could complicate things.
I couldn’t access the VIP posts from Bulldawgs247 or ScoutSteveR, which might contain more specific rumors.
If you want me to dig deeper into a specific candidate or check for updates closer to the hiring decision (likely in June), let me know

[Santiago]

For fun this what Grok (AI) thinks:

Since there are no publicly available betting odds for the next Mississippi State baseball coach as of my last update, I’ll provide a speculative analysis based on available information from web sources and posts on X, combined with my own reasoning. Mississippi State fired Chris Lemonis on April 28, 2025, and the search for a new head coach is ongoing, with Athletic Director Zac Selmon emphasizing a desire for a "splash hire" to restore the program’s prominence. Below, I’ll list potential candidates, assign speculative odds based on their fit, and include my own take on the situation.

Speculative Odds for Mississippi State Baseball Coach

These odds are not based on bookmaker data but are my estimates derived from the likelihood of each candidate being selected, considering their track record, connections to Mississippi State, and the program’s goals.

Brian O’Connor (Virginia) - 15% (6.67/1)
Why? O’Connor is a high-profile name with a stellar resume, including a 2015 national championship and seven College World Series (CWS) appearances with Virginia. Sources indicate he’s a person of interest for Mississippi State, and the program’s resources and fanbase could lure him despite his long tenure at Virginia.
Pros: Proven winner, national championship pedigree, and experience in a competitive conference (ACC). Mississippi State’s financial commitment (potentially matching or exceeding Lemonis’ $1.325M salary) could be appealing.
Cons: O’Connor has deep roots at Virginia (22 years), and leaving for another program, even a prestigious one like MSU, might be a tough sell unless he’s seeking a new challenge.
My Take: O’Connor would be a true splash hire, rivaling Texas’ hiring of Jim Schlossnagle. However, his long-term commitment to Virginia and lack of direct Mississippi ties make this a long shot, though not impossible given MSU’s resources.

Butch Thompson (Auburn) - 20% (5/1)
Why? Thompson, an Aberdeen, Mississippi native, served as MSU’s pitching coach from 2009-15, contributing to a 2013 CWS runner-up finish. He’s led Auburn to two CWS appearances (2019, 2022) and has the Tigers ranked No. 8 in 2025. His Mississippi roots and prior success in Starkville make him a fan favorite.
Pros: Strong SEC experience, familiarity with MSU’s program, and a track record of building competitive teams. His local ties could energize the fanbase.
Cons: Auburn is a strong program, and leaving a successful SEC job for another might require significant incentives. His loyalty to Auburn could be a hurdle.
My Take: Thompson feels like the most logical choice due to his MSU history and SEC success. He’d be a homecoming hire, but Auburn’s recent investment in him (new contract after 2022) might make negotiations tricky.

Wes Johnson (Georgia) - 18% (5.56/1)
Why? Johnson was MSU’s pitching coach in 2016, helping win an SEC title. In just two seasons at Georgia, he’s led the Bulldogs to a Super Regional and has them on track for a national seed in 2025. His pitching expertise and portal recruiting skills are notable.
Pros: Recent MSU connection, proven ability to elevate programs quickly, and familiarity with SEC competition. His move from LSU to Georgia shows he’s open to new challenges.
Cons: Georgia is a top-tier job, and Johnson’s short tenure there (since 2023) might mean he’s not ready to jump again so soon.
My Take: Johnson’s rapid success at Georgia and prior MSU stint make him a strong candidate. He’s a rising star, but I wonder if MSU might prioritize a more established name for a bigger splash.

Nick Mingione (Kentucky) - 15% (6.67/1)
Why? Mingione was an assistant at MSU from 2006-13, contributing to the 2013 CWS finals and 2016 SEC title. He’s transformed Kentucky into a consistent contender, reaching the 2024 CWS. His long history with MSU makes him a natural fit.
Pros: Deep ties to Starkville, SEC head coaching experience, and a proven track record of building a program from scratch at Kentucky.
Cons: Mingione’s success at Kentucky (new stadium, recent CWS appearance) might make him reluctant to leave unless MSU offers a significant upgrade.
My Take: Mingione’s emotional connection to MSU could sway him, but his commitment to Kentucky, where he’s built a legacy, might outweigh nostalgia. He’s a safe, popular choice but not the flashiest.

Erik Bakich (Clemson) - 12% (8.33/1)
Why? Bakich led Michigan to the 2019 CWS finals and has Clemson trending toward a national seed in 2025. His ability to build winners at multiple programs makes him a high-profile target.
Pros: Postseason success, experience across different programs, and a reputation as a program builder. MSU’s resources could appeal over Clemson’s.
Cons: Clemson is a strong ACC job, and Bakich’s recent success there might make him hesitant to move unless MSU offers a massive deal.
My Take: Bakich is a dark horse but a realistic splash hire. His lack of Mississippi ties might make him less appealing to fans compared to Thompson or Mingione, but his resume is undeniable.

Skip Johnson (Oklahoma) - 10% (10/1)
Why? Johnson led Oklahoma to the 2022 CWS and was at the school during Zac Selmon’s tenure there. His associate head coach, Reggie Willits, also has MSU interest, but Johnson’s head coaching experience stands out.
Pros: CWS experience, Oklahoma connection with Selmon, and a solid track record. Could be a bold hire from outside the SEC.
Cons: Oklahoma’s recent success and lack of Mississippi ties might make this a tougher sell. Less flashy than SEC names like Thompson or O’Connor.
My Take: Johnson’s Oklahoma connection with Selmon is intriguing, but he feels like a fallback option if bigger names decline. His CWS run is a plus, but he’s not the splashiest hire.

Cliff Godwin (East Carolina) - 8% (12.5/1)
Why? Godwin, a former assistant at Vanderbilt, LSU, and Ole Miss, has built East Carolina into a mid-major powerhouse with multiple super regional appearances. An X post from April 9, 2025, predicted he’d be MSU’s coach for 2026.
Pros: Proven mid-major success, SEC assistant experience, and a reputation as a top coach ready for a Power 4 job.
Cons: No head coaching experience in a major conference, which might not align with MSU’s “splash hire” goal. Less proven than SEC candidates.
My Take: Godwin’s a fan favorite on X, but I’m skeptical he’s the top choice. He’d be a riskier hire compared to proven SEC coaches, though his upside is high.

Tom Walter (Wake Forest) - 7% (14.29/1)
Why? Walter has built Wake Forest into an ACC contender, reaching the 2023 CWS. Sources suggest he could be interested in MSU’s resources.
Pros: Sustainable success at a resource-constrained program, CWS experience, and potential to thrive with MSU’s budget.
Cons: Wake Forest’s recent success might keep him in place, and he lacks SEC or Mississippi ties.
My Take: Walter’s an under-the-radar candidate who could surprise, but his lack of regional connections makes him less likely than Thompson or Mingione.

Other (Field) - 15% (6.67/1)
Why? Other names like Dan Heefner (Dallas Baptist), Chris Pollard (Duke), Christian Ostrander (Southern Miss), or assistants like Josh Elander (Tennessee) have been mentioned. An unexpected hire, possibly a rising assistant or mid-major coach, is always possible.
My Take: The field accounts for the unpredictability of coaching searches. Selmon’s history of hiring first-time head coaches (e.g., Jeff Lebby) suggests he might take a chance on a rising star like Elander or a mid-major coach like Ostrander if bigger names fall through.

My Speculation

Mississippi State’s job is one of the best in college baseball, with a $55M stadium, top attendance records, and significant NIL resources. Selmon’s track record suggests he values familiarity (e.g., hiring Lebby from Oklahoma) and isn’t afraid to give first-time head coaches a shot. However, the emphasis on a “splash hire” points to a proven head coach with CWS experience, likely from the SEC or a comparable Power 4 program.

Top Pick: I lean toward Butch Thompson as the most likely hire. His Mississippi roots, prior success as an MSU assistant, and current success at Auburn make him a perfect fit. He checks the boxes for both familiarity and splash potential, and his return to Starkville would resonate with fans. However, if Selmon swings big, Brian O’Connor could be the home run hire, though prying him from Virginia is a tall order.

Dark Horse: Josh Elander, Tennessee’s assistant, is a name to watch. At 34, he’s a rising star who helped Tennessee win the 2024 national title. Selmon’s willingness to hire unproven head coaches could make Elander a bold, forward-thinking choice, especially if top SEC coaches stay put.

Wild Card Scenario: If Selmon taps his Oklahoma connections again, Skip Johnson or even Reggie Willits could emerge, though Willits’ lack of head coaching experience makes him less likely. Alternatively, a mid-major coach like Cliff Godwin could gain traction if fan sentiment on X influences the search.

Caveats

The search is still in its early stages, and no clear frontrunner has emerged publicly. Names like Tony Vitello (Tennessee) are considered unrealistic.
Mississippi State’s financial muscle (potentially exceeding $1.325M in salary) and fan support make it a top-tier job, but competition from other SEC openings or coaches’ loyalty to current programs could complicate things.
I couldn’t access the VIP posts from Bulldawgs247 or ScoutSteveR, which might contain more specific rumors.
If you want me to dig deeper into a specific candidate or check for updates closer to the hiring decision (likely in June), let me know

I am surprised it did not mention Bert Stare ***

[Saltydog]

Not true. There was also a donation that had to be made to the BDC club per seat. I believe it was $1500 per seat. The tickets were in addition to this.

[sandjunky]

Not true. There was also a donation that had to be made to the BDC club per seat. I believe it was $1500 per seat. The tickets were in addition to this.

Correct - it was 1500 - I paid 6k for 4

[confucius say]

Not true. There was also a donation that had to be made to the BDC club per seat. I believe it was $1500 per seat. The tickets were in addition to this.

The tickets were in addition to the seat fee.
I know. I got 4.
The seat fee is 1800 per seat. That gets you a seat for 10 years. So $180 a year on average.
Then the season ticket is roughly $400 each year.
There was nothing else I had to pay on top of that.

[BankerDog]

Say it louder for the people in the back. THANK YOU!!!!

You two do realize there is no such thing as trading cash for equity right? When you use cash to pay liabilities, it does nothing to equity. It cancels out?

And yes we budgeted a $3MM loss this year. If you are paying off a stadium and in the red, you?re still operating at a loss? We you are not generating free cash flow you do not have cash to pay buyouts, etc then have to take funds from other sports that pay the bills.

[SPMT]

You two do realize there is no such thing as trading cash for equity right? When you use cash to pay liabilities, it does nothing to equity. It cancels out?

And yes we budgeted a $3MM loss this year. If you are paying off a stadium and in the red, you?re still operating at a loss? We you are not generating free cash flow you do not have cash to pay buyouts, etc then have to take funds from other sports that pay the bills.

Loan em some banker dog

[Coach34]

You two do realize there is no such thing as trading cash for equity right? When you use cash to pay liabilities, it does nothing to equity. It cancels out?

And yes we budgeted a $3MM loss this year. If you are paying off a stadium and in the red, you?re still operating at a loss? We you are not generating free cash flow you do not have cash to pay buyouts, etc then have to take funds from other sports that pay the bills.

thank you

Its great we have a palace for a stadium- but it is costing us

[smootness]

For fun this what Grok (AI) thinks:

Since there are no publicly available betting odds for the next Mississippi State baseball coach as of my last update, I?ll provide a speculative analysis based on available information from web sources and posts on X, combined with my own reasoning. Mississippi State fired Chris Lemonis on April 28, 2025, and the search for a new head coach is ongoing, with Athletic Director Zac Selmon emphasizing a desire for a "splash hire" to restore the program?s prominence. Below, I?ll list potential candidates, assign speculative odds based on their fit, and include my own take on the situation.

Speculative Odds for Mississippi State Baseball Coach

These odds are not based on bookmaker data but are my estimates derived from the likelihood of each candidate being selected, considering their track record, connections to Mississippi State, and the program?s goals.

Brian O?Connor (Virginia) - 15% (6.67/1)
Why? O?Connor is a high-profile name with a stellar resume, including a 2015 national championship and seven College World Series (CWS) appearances with Virginia. Sources indicate he?s a person of interest for Mississippi State, and the program?s resources and fanbase could lure him despite his long tenure at Virginia.
Pros: Proven winner, national championship pedigree, and experience in a competitive conference (ACC). Mississippi State?s financial commitment (potentially matching or exceeding Lemonis? $1.325M salary) could be appealing.
Cons: O?Connor has deep roots at Virginia (22 years), and leaving for another program, even a prestigious one like MSU, might be a tough sell unless he?s seeking a new challenge.
My Take: O?Connor would be a true splash hire, rivaling Texas? hiring of Jim Schlossnagle. However, his long-term commitment to Virginia and lack of direct Mississippi ties make this a long shot, though not impossible given MSU?s resources.

Butch Thompson (Auburn) - 20% (5/1)
Why? Thompson, an Aberdeen, Mississippi native, served as MSU?s pitching coach from 2009-15, contributing to a 2013 CWS runner-up finish. He?s led Auburn to two CWS appearances (2019, 2022) and has the Tigers ranked No. 8 in 2025. His Mississippi roots and prior success in Starkville make him a fan favorite.
Pros: Strong SEC experience, familiarity with MSU?s program, and a track record of building competitive teams. His local ties could energize the fanbase.
Cons: Auburn is a strong program, and leaving a successful SEC job for another might require significant incentives. His loyalty to Auburn could be a hurdle.
My Take: Thompson feels like the most logical choice due to his MSU history and SEC success. He?d be a homecoming hire, but Auburn?s recent investment in him (new contract after 2022) might make negotiations tricky.

Wes Johnson (Georgia) - 18% (5.56/1)
Why? Johnson was MSU?s pitching coach in 2016, helping win an SEC title. In just two seasons at Georgia, he?s led the Bulldogs to a Super Regional and has them on track for a national seed in 2025. His pitching expertise and portal recruiting skills are notable.
Pros: Recent MSU connection, proven ability to elevate programs quickly, and familiarity with SEC competition. His move from LSU to Georgia shows he?s open to new challenges.
Cons: Georgia is a top-tier job, and Johnson?s short tenure there (since 2023) might mean he?s not ready to jump again so soon.
My Take: Johnson?s rapid success at Georgia and prior MSU stint make him a strong candidate. He?s a rising star, but I wonder if MSU might prioritize a more established name for a bigger splash.

Nick Mingione (Kentucky) - 15% (6.67/1)
Why? Mingione was an assistant at MSU from 2006-13, contributing to the 2013 CWS finals and 2016 SEC title. He?s transformed Kentucky into a consistent contender, reaching the 2024 CWS. His long history with MSU makes him a natural fit.
Pros: Deep ties to Starkville, SEC head coaching experience, and a proven track record of building a program from scratch at Kentucky.
Cons: Mingione?s success at Kentucky (new stadium, recent CWS appearance) might make him reluctant to leave unless MSU offers a significant upgrade.
My Take: Mingione?s emotional connection to MSU could sway him, but his commitment to Kentucky, where he?s built a legacy, might outweigh nostalgia. He?s a safe, popular choice but not the flashiest.

Erik Bakich (Clemson) - 12% (8.33/1)
Why? Bakich led Michigan to the 2019 CWS finals and has Clemson trending toward a national seed in 2025. His ability to build winners at multiple programs makes him a high-profile target.
Pros: Postseason success, experience across different programs, and a reputation as a program builder. MSU?s resources could appeal over Clemson?s.
Cons: Clemson is a strong ACC job, and Bakich?s recent success there might make him hesitant to move unless MSU offers a massive deal.
My Take: Bakich is a dark horse but a realistic splash hire. His lack of Mississippi ties might make him less appealing to fans compared to Thompson or Mingione, but his resume is undeniable.

Skip Johnson (Oklahoma) - 10% (10/1)
Why? Johnson led Oklahoma to the 2022 CWS and was at the school during Zac Selmon?s tenure there. His associate head coach, Reggie Willits, also has MSU interest, but Johnson?s head coaching experience stands out.
Pros: CWS experience, Oklahoma connection with Selmon, and a solid track record. Could be a bold hire from outside the SEC.
Cons: Oklahoma?s recent success and lack of Mississippi ties might make this a tougher sell. Less flashy than SEC names like Thompson or O?Connor.
My Take: Johnson?s Oklahoma connection with Selmon is intriguing, but he feels like a fallback option if bigger names decline. His CWS run is a plus, but he?s not the splashiest hire.

Cliff Godwin (East Carolina) - 8% (12.5/1)
Why? Godwin, a former assistant at Vanderbilt, LSU, and Ole Miss, has built East Carolina into a mid-major powerhouse with multiple super regional appearances. An X post from April 9, 2025, predicted he?d be MSU?s coach for 2026.
Pros: Proven mid-major success, SEC assistant experience, and a reputation as a top coach ready for a Power 4 job.
Cons: No head coaching experience in a major conference, which might not align with MSU?s ?splash hire? goal. Less proven than SEC candidates.
My Take: Godwin?s a fan favorite on X, but I?m skeptical he?s the top choice. He?d be a riskier hire compared to proven SEC coaches, though his upside is high.

Tom Walter (Wake Forest) - 7% (14.29/1)
Why? Walter has built Wake Forest into an ACC contender, reaching the 2023 CWS. Sources suggest he could be interested in MSU?s resources.
Pros: Sustainable success at a resource-constrained program, CWS experience, and potential to thrive with MSU?s budget.
Cons: Wake Forest?s recent success might keep him in place, and he lacks SEC or Mississippi ties.
My Take: Walter?s an under-the-radar candidate who could surprise, but his lack of regional connections makes him less likely than Thompson or Mingione.

Other (Field) - 15% (6.67/1)
Why? Other names like Dan Heefner (Dallas Baptist), Chris Pollard (Duke), Christian Ostrander (Southern Miss), or assistants like Josh Elander (Tennessee) have been mentioned. An unexpected hire, possibly a rising assistant or mid-major coach, is always possible.
My Take: The field accounts for the unpredictability of coaching searches. Selmon?s history of hiring first-time head coaches (e.g., Jeff Lebby) suggests he might take a chance on a rising star like Elander or a mid-major coach like Ostrander if bigger names fall through.

My Speculation

Mississippi State?s job is one of the best in college baseball, with a $55M stadium, top attendance records, and significant NIL resources. Selmon?s track record suggests he values familiarity (e.g., hiring Lebby from Oklahoma) and isn?t afraid to give first-time head coaches a shot. However, the emphasis on a ?splash hire? points to a proven head coach with CWS experience, likely from the SEC or a comparable Power 4 program.

Top Pick: I lean toward Butch Thompson as the most likely hire. His Mississippi roots, prior success as an MSU assistant, and current success at Auburn make him a perfect fit. He checks the boxes for both familiarity and splash potential, and his return to Starkville would resonate with fans. However, if Selmon swings big, Brian O?Connor could be the home run hire, though prying him from Virginia is a tall order.

Dark Horse: Josh Elander, Tennessee?s assistant, is a name to watch. At 34, he?s a rising star who helped Tennessee win the 2024 national title. Selmon?s willingness to hire unproven head coaches could make Elander a bold, forward-thinking choice, especially if top SEC coaches stay put.

Wild Card Scenario: If Selmon taps his Oklahoma connections again, Skip Johnson or even Reggie Willits could emerge, though Willits? lack of head coaching experience makes him less likely. Alternatively, a mid-major coach like Cliff Godwin could gain traction if fan sentiment on X influences the search.

Caveats

The search is still in its early stages, and no clear frontrunner has emerged publicly. Names like Tony Vitello (Tennessee) are considered unrealistic.
Mississippi State?s financial muscle (potentially exceeding $1.325M in salary) and fan support make it a top-tier job, but competition from other SEC openings or coaches? loyalty to current programs could complicate things.
I couldn?t access the VIP posts from Bulldawgs247 or ScoutSteveR, which might contain more specific rumors.
If you want me to dig deeper into a specific candidate or check for updates closer to the hiring decision (likely in June), let me know

120%. Sweet.

[Tater]

120%. Sweet.

It's an english language calculator, not a math calculator.

[Todd4State]

You two do realize there is no such thing as trading cash for equity right? When you use cash to pay liabilities, it does nothing to equity. It cancels out?

And yes we budgeted a $3MM loss this year. If you are paying off a stadium and in the red, you?re still operating at a loss? We you are not generating free cash flow you do not have cash to pay buyouts, etc then have to take funds from other sports that pay the bills.

It's no different than a business with a mortgage.

Once we pay the stadium off which I believe was a 10 year mortgage/loan whatever their terms were it's paid off and then the money that we were using for the stadium becomes profit.

Yes it's a loss now but it's a short term loss that won't exist forever.

Also, when the seat licenses expire which I believe is in 2028 or 2029 you can believe that the prices for those are going to go up and with the 3k waiting list for seats which will equal more profit.

I mean- we do need a stadium and the old one was outdated and it was inevitable that it was going to be renovated or torn down. And that was going to cost money no matter how we did it. And at least we did it right. I can't ask for anything more than that.

[Todd4State]

Loan em some banker dog

Doesn't have to. I'm debt free.

[basedog]

It's no different than a business with a mortgage.

Once we pay the stadium off which I believe was a 10 year mortgage/loan whatever their terms were it's paid off and then the money that we were using for the stadium becomes profit.

Yes it's a loss now but it's a short term loss that won't exist forever.

Also, when the seat licenses expire which I believe is in 2028 or 2029 you can believe that the prices for those are going to go up and with the 3k waiting list for seats which will equal more profit.

I mean- we do need a stadium and the old one was outdated and it was inevitable that it was going to be renovated or torn down. And that was going to cost money no matter how we did it. And at least we did it right. I can't ask for anything more than that.

Yes, good points plus in the future things will be much better. Let’s hope our new baseball hire will be excitement which is always a plus.

[Cowbell]

You two do realize there is no such thing as trading cash for equity right? When you use cash to pay liabilities, it does nothing to equity. It cancels out?

And yes we budgeted a $3MM loss this year. If you are paying off a stadium and in the red, you?re still operating at a loss? We you are not generating free cash flow you do not have cash to pay buyouts, etc then have to take funds from other sports that pay the bills.

If you want to be technical, we traded cash for equity in other assets....

[Todd4State]

Yes, good points plus in the future things will be much better. Let’s hope our new baseball hire will be excitement which is always a plus.

The fact that we invested so much in a stadium like ours I think will help us land a coach that we want. Even if we did take a loss on the stadium the fact that we even made a commitment is something most schools wouldn't do. And coaches that are complaining about lack of resources being a major reason why they are looking around have a hard time not noticing the AAA baseball stadium on campus.

If it works out- still in progress- that could net MSU multiple championships potentially as well as more exposure. Even if it's not football or basketball any exposure is good for MSU. And that could be parlayed to other sports such as football and basketball as well.

Who we will hire is a big question mark right now. And absolutely critical to get it right. I'm optimistic about it but we'll see how it plays out. We'll find out in about 3-4 weeks if I had to make an educated guess.

[StarkVegasSteve]

The fact that we invested so much in a stadium like ours I think will help us land a coach that we want. Even if we did take a loss on the stadium the fact that we even made a commitment is something most schools wouldn't do. And coaches that are complaining about lack of resources being a major reason why they are looking around have a hard time not noticing the AAA baseball stadium on campus.

If it works out- still in progress- that could net MSU multiple championships potentially as well as more exposure. Even if it's not football or basketball any exposure is good for MSU. And that could be parlayed to other sports such as football and basketball as well.

Who we will hire is a big question mark right now. And absolutely critical to get it right. I'm optimistic about it but we'll see how it plays out. We'll find out in about 3-4 weeks if I had to make an educated guess.

Our stadium has nothing to do with who we're going to hire or who we'll attract. Our fan base has nothing to do with who we will hire or who we will attract. The LFL has nothing to do with who we will hire or who we will attract.

Our job is attractive right now for THREE reasons:

1. It's the most high profile job open.

2. It's in the best conference in college baseball by a mile.

3. And this is the most important, these coaches know we're going to invest rev share and NIL into baseball whereas other schools are not.

[maroonmania]

thank you

Its great we have a palace for a stadium- but it is costing us

But in reality we probably built too small for the actual seating area. When you've got 3000+ on a waiting list that's a lot of money we could be taking in that we aren't. Baseball ticket demand will always be there for MSU more than any other sport.

[StarkVegasSteve]

But in reality we probably built too small for the actual seating area. When you've got 3000+ on a waiting list that's a lot of money we could be taking in that we aren't. Baseball ticket demand will always be there for MSU more than any other sport.

We built for the demand at the time. If more people would've opted in for tickets then the stadium would've been bigger.

[Johnson85]

Seems we will get a P5 HC for baseball. Plus he or they have been to CWS. We shall see. I?m good with ?he or they?.

It?s early and things could change.

I've heard people saying we are looking to "go modern", but I did not expect us to have a legit candidate using "they" as his pronoun.

[HoopsDawg]

We built for the demand at the time. If more people would've opted in for tickets then the stadium would've been bigger.

Not true. The demand was there. Cohen/Stricklin others were concerned about the empty seats at 50% of the games.

[Todd4State]

Our stadium has nothing to do with who we're going to hire or who we'll attract. Our fan base has nothing to do with who we will hire or who we will attract. The LFL has nothing to do with who we will hire or who we will attract.

Our job is attractive right now for THREE reasons:

1. It's the most high profile job open.

2. It's in the best conference in college baseball by a mile.

3. And this is the most important, these coaches know we're going to invest rev share and NIL into baseball whereas other schools are not.

I disagree about the stadium and its impact. It is the most tangible thing that we can point to an outsider as evidence that we will commit to baseball.

There is a big difference between MSU baseball and Oklahoma baseball. Or even Georgia.

[Coursesuper]

I disagree about the stadium and its impact. It is the most tangible thing that we can point to an outsider as evidence that we will commit to baseball.

There is a big difference between MSU baseball and Oklahoma baseball. Or even Georgia.

I feel our stadium is just first, it does show we are committed to baseball, but its nothing that almost any other school in our league can do or are in the process of doing now. I guess some feel that we are unique and that's a selling point but really don't think coaches think that way.

[StarkVegasSteve]

I disagree about the stadium and its impact. It is the most tangible thing that we can point to an outsider as evidence that we will commit to baseball.

There is a big difference between MSU baseball and Oklahoma baseball. Or even Georgia.

No there's not. Not in the NIL era. Players want to go where they are going to get paid and where they can have a good experience. That is almost every SEC school.

Coaches want to coach at places that can get players and is committed, from an NIL standpoint, to baseball.


Arkansas has a nice stadium, LSU has a nice stadium, Ole Miss has a nice stadium, Florida has a nice stadium, Tennessee has a nice stadium and is upgrading, South Carolina has a nice stadium, Auburn has a nice stadium. Like half the SEC has nice stadiums. And they can still play in our stadium even they don't come here. Stadiums don't matter. Not in today's age.

[cheewgumm]

No there's not. Not in the NIL era. Players want to go where they are going to get paid and where they can have a good experience. That is almost every SEC school.

Coaches want to coach at places that can get players and is committed, from an NIL standpoint, to baseball.


Arkansas has a nice stadium, LSU has a nice stadium, Ole Miss has a nice stadium, Florida has a nice stadium, Tennessee has a nice stadium and is upgrading, South Carolina has a nice stadium, Auburn has a nice stadium. Like half the SEC has nice stadiums. And they can still play in our stadium even they don't come here. Stadiums don't matter. Not in today's age.

I?d agree to disagree, but no way to prove it.

Missouri is the one who should capitalize.

Just buy a team.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Not true. The demand was there. Cohen/Stricklin others were concerned about the empty seats at 50% of the games.

There's empty seats at 50% of the games now. And there was in 2021 as well. We fill that stadium about 4 times a year generally. Opening weekend, SBW, LSU, and [insert random conference opponent having a good year]. And if there's a regional/SR we'll fill it for that.

[StarkVegasSteve]

I?d agree to disagree, but no way to prove it.

Missouri is the one who should capitalize.

Just buy a team.

But they're not committed. So they can't get the players and can't attract a good coach.

[CaptainObvious]

There's empty seats at 50% of the games now. And there was in 2021 as well. We fill that stadium about 4 times a year generally. Opening weekend, SBW, LSU, and [insert random conference opponent having a good year]. And if there's a regional/SR we'll fill it for that.

We don't need a larger stadium. We also don't need berms in both sides. Add seats even if they are fancy cushion Chairbacks in one or both of those. Have a portable bleacher system built that can be rolled out for those big events! The right field area where the students gather 100 humans deep is dangerous and there will be a major accident out there eventually when most of the students are drinking and not paying attention to the game! But so be it out there. But general admission folks need seats even if ticket sales are limited!

[StarkVegasSteve]

We don't need a larger stadium. We also don't need berms in both sides. Add seats even if they are fancy cushion Chairbacks in one or both of those. Have a portable bleacher system built that can be rolled out for those big events! The right field area where the students gather 100 humans deep is dangerous and there will be a major accident out there eventually when most of the students are drinking and not paying attention to the game! But so be it out there. But general admission folks need seats even if ticket sales are limited!

I think the eventual plan will be to leave one of the berms, probably right field, and convert the left field berm into chairbacks, but they will be season ticket chairbacks I doubt we ever see portable bleachers in this stadium. It would kill the 360 concourse. AND WE WILL NEVER HAVE GA CHAIRBACKS. The only thing I could see them doing is extending the upper deck down the lines and putting metal bleachers there.

I've softened my stance on never putting bleachers into the new stadium over the years. I still am not a huge fan of it but also understand we probably need to have it because a lot of people don't want to sit on grass or have to stand the entire time.

[cheewgumm]

But they're not committed. So they can't get the players and can't attract a good coach.

I?m saying if thy wanted couldnt they just pay the most in baseball? That would show commitment.

I don?t know their NIL situation.

[StarkVegasSteve]

I?m saying if thy wanted couldnt they just pay the most in baseball? That would show commitment.

I don?t know their NIL situation.

They have really good NIL in football and basketball......most of their fans don't know they have a baseball team.

[Coursesuper]

They have really good NIL in football and basketball......most of their fans don't know they have a baseball team.

Yes, they have MLB on both ends of the state not far from them, they know baseball will never be a sport that generates much interest there. They know where to put the funding that they need to use and that's in football and basketball.

[DawgFromOxford]

I've softened my stance on never putting bleachers into the new stadium over the years. I still am not a huge fan of it but also understand we probably need to have it because a lot of people don't want to sit on grass or have to stand the entire time.

It's the reason why I haven't been back to a game in a couple of years (that and we've sucked). I'm not driving 3 hours to then have to stand for 3 hours. I'm not mad about it, just means I won't be going to any games in person. I get why we don't put eye sore bleachers out there.

[Pinto]

It's the reason why I haven't been back to a game in a couple of years (that and we've sucked). I'm not driving 3 hours to then have to stand for 3 hours. I'm not mad about it, just means I won't be going to any games in person. I get why we don't put eye sore bleachers out there.

I?ve never had problems getting chairbacks on stubhub whether it?s me and my son or all seven of us. Seats are easier to come by than people say.

[bulldogcountry1]

I?ve never had problems getting chairbacks on stubhub whether it?s me and my son or all seven of us. Seats are easier to come by than people say.

Right. A lot of fans just get upset because they expect to be able to buy a chair back ticket the Wednesday before SWB without any commitment.

The truth is, outside of SBW, LSU, and UM, you can easily get chair backs on Stubhub or just get GA at the gate and sit wherever you want.

[Coursesuper]

Right. A lot of fans just get upset because they expect to be able to buy a chair back ticket the Wednesday before SWB without any commitment.

The truth is, outside of SBW, LSU, and UM, you can easily get chair backs on Stubhub or just get GA at the gate and sit wherever you want.

This is the truth, we only fill it a couple of times a year and if there is post season baseball.

[Interpolation_Dawg_EX]

We don't need a larger stadium. We also don't need berms in both sides. Add seats even if they are fancy cushion Chairbacks in one or both of those. Have a portable bleacher system built that can be rolled out for those big events! The right field area where the students gather 100 humans deep is dangerous and there will be a major accident out there eventually when most of the students are drinking and not paying attention to the game! But so be it out there. But general admission folks need seats even if ticket sales are limited!

What I would like is the ability to take my family of 4, with two children under 10, to a game and have somewhere to sit without hailing to race to get to the berm. I don't care if it's bleachers and they charge $25/ticket, I could stomach that. There were about 5-6 times where we wanted to go up to a game but said screw it because we didn't want to stand the entire time. We would go more but travel soccer takes up several weekends. I'm sure many families are in the same boat.

[HoopsDawg]

What I would like is the ability to take my family of 4, with two children under 10, to a game and have somewhere to sit without hailing to race to get to the berm. I don't care if it's bleachers and they charge $25/ticket, I could stomach that. There were about 5-6 times where we wanted to go up to a game but said screw it because we didn't want to stand the entire time. We would go more but travel soccer takes up several weekends. I'm sure many families are in the same boat.

seems like a resonable request.

[Cowbell]

What I would like is the ability to take my family of 4, with two children under 10, to a game and have somewhere to sit without hailing to race to get to the berm. I don't care if it's bleachers and they charge $25/ticket, I could stomach that. There were about 5-6 times where we wanted to go up to a game but said screw it because we didn't want to stand the entire time. We would go more but travel soccer takes up several weekends. I'm sure many families are in the same boat.

Right there with ya!

[Todd4State]

No there's not. Not in the NIL era. Players want to go where they are going to get paid and where they can have a good experience. That is almost every SEC school.

Coaches want to coach at places that can get players and is committed, from an NIL standpoint, to baseball.


Arkansas has a nice stadium, LSU has a nice stadium, Ole Miss has a nice stadium, Florida has a nice stadium, Tennessee has a nice stadium and is upgrading, South Carolina has a nice stadium, Auburn has a nice stadium. Like half the SEC has nice stadiums. And they can still play in our stadium even they don't come here. Stadiums don't matter. Not in today's age.

What I'm saying is by showing commitment to the program we can attract an elite coach and that will help us attract elite players. Baseball players are different. They know that the real money is in MLB. They don't care as much about NIL for the most part unless it's a guy that's like Hunter Hines who is a good college player but really doesn't have great MLB prospects. Even then no one is going to break the bank for a guy like that. NIL is a factor- but for most players having a coach that can develop them and get them to MLB is the biggest thing. It's a chicken and the egg argument. Use the stadium and facilities to attract the elite coaches by showing commitment and then those coaches attract the elite players. Look at our search- many of the candidates are candidates because why? Most of the schools aren't showing a commitment to baseball to them. Like O'Conner. I've heard rumors about Vitello being upset at Tennessee because they have drug their feet on some things and that may eventually lead to him leaving.


Yes, they have MLB on both ends of the state not far from them, they know baseball will never be a sport that generates much interest there. They know where to put the funding that they need to use and that's in football and basketball.

It's the same situation as Georgia and Florida really. There is enough talent in that state for them to be competitive in the SEC and there is no excuse for them to be where they are right now. Most people that live in Missouri would prefer to go to Mizzou than most places- meaning they should have a monopoly on players in that state. Missouri State and SEMO State are much better programs right now and Mizzou should be ashamed. Their coach right now isn't the answer either.


I think the eventual plan will be to leave one of the berms, probably right field, and convert the left field berm into chairbacks, but they will be season ticket chairbacks I doubt we ever see portable bleachers in this stadium. It would kill the 360 concourse. AND WE WILL NEVER HAVE GA CHAIRBACKS. The only thing I could see them doing is extending the upper deck down the lines and putting metal bleachers there.

I've softened my stance on never putting bleachers into the new stadium over the years. I still am not a huge fan of it but also understand we probably need to have it because a lot of people don't want to sit on grass or have to stand the entire time.

I think we can make portable bleachers work for the few games we need them. As you know it would only be a few times that we would ever actually really need them. And when we are playing Arkansas State or whoever we can just move them out of the way.

[Todd4State]

Right. A lot of fans just get upset because they expect to be able to buy a chair back ticket the Wednesday before SWB without any commitment.

The truth is, outside of SBW, LSU, and UM, you can easily get chair backs on Stubhub or just get GA at the gate and sit wherever you want.

Exactly. And I like having that option. And yes, you do have to pay for it but before the new stadium we really didn't have that option at all.

[The Federalist Engineer]

Perspective MSU coaches and players want to see Wins.

Finishing strong on the season and people blasting HR is providing new memories.

Nobody is thinking about Bucket anymore, they see a team blasting HRs and hopefully in the top end of the nation in hitting and making noise in the postseason.

The program is looking good and potentially blasting an ACC champ in a regional is going to make ACC coaches take note.

[Cooterpoot]

Getting back to coach talk- looking at things we'd have to pay a small fortune for Bakich, Wes, or Walter unless I missed a clause somewhere.. O'Connor and Wasikowki would be cheap. After those it's an assistant. I can't see this falling below Wasikowski. I think you'd pay more for O'Connor and it would take it to get him to leave. If we have to wait very long to name a guy it's not O'Connor, I'd bet Wasikowski. Bakich is getting a lot of talk right now though, which seems odd with his buyout. Anyway, I'm more concerned with the search than a regional location.

[Cowbell]

Getting back to coach talk- looking at things we'd have to pay a small fortune for Bakich, Wes, or Walter unless I missed a clause somewhere.. O'Connor and Wasikowki would be cheap. After those it's an assistant. I can't see this falling below Wasikowski. I think you'd pay more for O'Connor and it would take it to get him to leave. If we have to wait very long to name a guy it's not O'Connor, I'd bet Wasikowski. Bakich is getting a lot of talk right now though, which seems odd with his buyout. Anyway, I'm more concerned with the search than a regional location.

If we go the assistant route, I would rather just keep the guys we have. That's less of a gamble than anybody with no experience as HC

[Cooterpoot]

If we go the assistant route, I would rather just keep the guys we have. That's less of a gamble than anybody with no experience as HC

State fans have raised enough hell about hiring assistants in everything, I really don't think an assistant will get it. It would be stupid to pass on Was.

[confucius say]

Assuming no O'Connor, bakich, or Johnson, Rank these 5 in order of preference:

Walter
Was
Parker
Coggin
Elander

[Cooterpoot]

Assuming no O'Connor, bakich, or Johnson, Rank these 5 in order of preference:

Walter
Was
Parker
Coggin
Elander

Was
Walter (not a big fan though so I don't care after Was)
Either or on Coggin/Elander
Parker (could move up over those two)

Walter has a big buyout

[DownwardDawg]

Coach Kawasaki ........ Would this be a good hire? I have paid much attention to Oregon baseball lately.

[Coursesuper]

Assuming no O'Connor, bakich, or Johnson, Rank these 5 in order of preference:

Walter
Was
Parker
Coggin
Elander

Was
Walter
Elander
Coggin
Parker

[Quaoarsking]

Prediction: 2 out of O'Connor, Bakich, and Wasikowski are coaching at Mississippi State and Texas A&M next year.

The third could go to Missouri if they decide they want to fully commit to being a good baseball program, but I doubt it.

[Todd4State]

Coach Kawasaki ........ Would this be a good hire? I have paid much attention to Oregon baseball lately.

Yes it would. I agree with what Aaron Fitt said about it a couple of days ago- it would be similar to LSU hiring Johnson from Arizona.

He has Oregon as basically a lock as a National Seed at this point. Has taken Oregon to Super Regionals the last two years and has gone to a retinal every year he has been there. They have a very real chance to go to Omaha and they have gradually gotten better every year he has been there.

Was an assistant at Florida under Andy Lopez so he is familiar with SEC baseball. And has coached all over the country meaning he has connections that can be valuable in recruiting and the portal potentially.

[Coursesuper]

Prediction: 2 out of O'Connor, Bakich, and Wasikowski are coaching at Mississippi State and Texas A&M next year.

The third could go to Missouri if they decide they want to fully commit to being a good baseball program, but I doubt it.

Mizzu ain’t gonna go there.

[Quaoarsking]

Admittedly, I've been an "O'Connor or Bust" guy since the day he fired Lemonis, but either Bakich or Wasikowski is acceptable if O'Connor doesn't work out. All 3 of those coaches have consistently won in the regular season, not just a random Cinderella run in the tournament or anything.

[Pancho]

This is the truth, we only fill it a couple of times a year and if there is post season baseball.

as long as the guy in section 103 row M seat 10 isn't doing his ole miss prick impersonation and demand to see your ticket on your phone

[ZedFedder]

I am good with virtually everyone we are tied to except for Walter.

[StateDawg44]

I am good with virtually everyone we are tied to except for Walter.

Yep. Just doesn?t have the track record.

[Coursesuper]

Yep. Just doesn?t have the track record.

He’s winning at Wake Forest, Wake Forest. He has been extremely successful and consistent at a very tough place to win. I’m not sure what you people want, but we can do one hell of a lot worse and just fired much worse. Guy can manage a program well.

[KB21]

He’s winning at Wake Forest, Wake Forest. He has been extremely successful and consistent at a very tough place to win. I’m not sure what you people want, but we can do one hell of a lot worse and just fired much worse. Guy can manage a program well.

That, and if both Marek Houston and Ethan Conrad get drafted in the first round, that will be 9 first round draft picks for Walter since 2000.

[DownwardDawg]

Yes it would. I agree with what Aaron Fitt said about it a couple of days ago- it would be similar to LSU hiring Johnson from Arizona.

He has Oregon as basically a lock as a National Seed at this point. Has taken Oregon to Super Regionals the last two years and has gone to a retinal every year he has been there. They have a very real chance to go to Omaha and they have gradually gotten better every year he has been there.

Was an assistant at Florida under Andy Lopez so he is familiar with SEC baseball. And has coached all over the country meaning he has connections that can be valuable in recruiting and the portal potentially.

Thanks for the information.
Sounds solid.

[Todd4State]

He’s winning at Wake Forest, Wake Forest. He has been extremely successful and consistent at a very tough place to win. I’m not sure what you people want, but we can do one hell of a lot worse and just fired much worse. Guy can manage a program well.

The concern with him is how much of his success is tied to Corey Muscara his pitching coach. If we were to hire him there is a very real possibility that Muscara is hired to replace him at Wake Forest. There is also the inevitable situation where Muscara comes with him and leaves after a year or two.

We would be much better off hiring Wasikowski or Bakich or O'Conner and then trying to hire Muscara as our pitching coach.

[KOdawg1]

Swing for BOC, Wes, and Bakich.

If none of them bite, Wasikowski and Chris Pollard are excellent Plan B's.

I think we won't have to get past that.

[Coursesuper]

The concern with him is how much of his success is tied to Corey Muscara his pitching coach. If we were to hire him there is a very real possibility that Muscara is hired to replace him at Wake Forest. There is also the inevitable situation where Muscara comes with him and leaves after a year or two.

We would be much better off hiring Wasikowski or Bakich or O'Conner and then trying to hire Muscara as our pitching coach.

He was smart enough to hire him, I’d say that makes him a very solid program manager with a consistent program in a very hard place to win.

[KB21]

He was smart enough to hire him, I’d say that makes him a very solid program manager with a consistent program in a very hard place to win.

Tom Walter also spearheaded getting their pitching lab build and operational. It opened in 2019, so by the time Muscara got there in 2022, they were starting to see the results of the lab.

[Santiago]

All said, schedule easier, less pressure....but the guys are playing with more swagger. Even the guys coming off the bench.
Whether here or somewhere else, Parker is an up and coming coach. He seems to bring that quiet swagger, and interacts better with players.

edit: I know we are swinging for the fences on coaches and we should. But currently the one running the show for regionals is doing his job.
It is the beard man. Beards win .

[CaptainObvious]

If Parker wants the job, I say it is 40-50% chance Selmon and Keenum over-react to the success against 4 of the last 5 opponents. You could say Helen Keller could see the sweep of Missouri coming. But 25-7, 13-3, and 12-1? Probably not expected from this team. Also, sweeping UK has happened before and State essentially owns Bianco no matter who our coach is. I definitely believe hiring Parker would be an over-reaction to this current run against suspect competition. Needs to be a sitting established successful head coach. Period. Sentence. End of paragraph. Last page in the book!

[Santiago]

If Parker wants the job, I say it is 40-50% chance Selmon and Keenum over-react to the success against 4 of the last 5 opponents. You could say Helen Keller could see the sweep of Missouri coming. But 25-7, 13-3, and 12-1? Probably not expected from this team. Also, sweeping UK has happened before and State essentially owns Bianco no matter who our coach is. I definitely believe hiring Parker would be an over-reaction to this current run against suspect competition. Needs to be a sitting established successful head coach. Period. Sentence. End of paragraph. Last page in the book!

It might be more about see how he navigates the regionals as well though.
Selmon has seen Parker for 2 years, and knows who the kids respond to.
It was not just that we won those games, but how our players are playing. It is a different swagger as well, which seems to match Parker.

AND, really it is more about are we striking out on all those "really interested in MSU" coaches we are swinging the fences for.

[Coursesuper]

If Parker wants the job, I say it is 40-50% chance Selmon and Keenum over-react to the success against 4 of the last 5 opponents. You could say Helen Keller could see the sweep of Missouri coming. But 25-7, 13-3, and 12-1? Probably not expected from this team. Also, sweeping UK has happened before and State essentially owns Bianco no matter who our coach is. I definitely believe hiring Parker would be an over-reaction to this current run against suspect competition. Needs to be a sitting established successful head coach. Period. Sentence. End of paragraph. Last page in the book!

They are not the ones driving this search. This has been known since day one.

[Quaoarsking]

If Parker wants the job, I say it is 40-50% chance Selmon and Keenum over-react to the success against 4 of the last 5 opponents. You could say Helen Keller could see the sweep of Missouri coming. But 25-7, 13-3, and 12-1? Probably not expected from this team. Also, sweeping UK has happened before and State essentially owns Bianco no matter who our coach is. I definitely believe hiring Parker would be an over-reaction to this current run against suspect competition. Needs to be a sitting established successful head coach. Period. Sentence. End of paragraph. Last page in the book!

4-5% maybe, but even that's probably overstating things.

[bulldogcountry1]

Building up a program with no history, limited support, and limited resources is admirable, but it doesn?t mean you?ll be automatically be successful at a place with history, massive support, and significant resources.

[Todd4State]

He was smart enough to hire him, I’d say that makes him a very solid program manager with a consistent program in a very hard place to win.

But the question remains- is Walter a late bloomer or did he get lucky in hiring Muscara?

I would prefer to hire someone like Wasikowski with Muscara as the pitching coach because that is a much safer route for us.

[CaptainObvious]

4-5% maybe, but even that's probably overstating things.

4 or 5 % chance Selmon and Keenum "over-react?" I think the % chance they "over-react is much higher!" Not over 50% so that is why I qualified my point by saying we need to hire a sitting established successful Head Coach! I just don't trust Keenum who is Selmon's boss. These "so-called" behind the scenes baseball super supporters better tell Keenum they will withhold their large yearly donations if he doesn't support spending their donations on NIL and more than $2 million in total staff payments and decides to go cheap and stand pat with remaining staff!

[Quaoarsking]

4 or 5 % chance Selmon and Keenum "over-react?" I think the % chance they "over-react is much higher!" Not over 50% so that is why I qualified my point by saying we need to hire a sitting established successful Head Coach! I just don't trust Keenum who is Selmon's boss. These "so-called" behind the scenes baseball super supporters better tell Keenum they will withhold their large yearly donations if he doesn't support spending their donations on NIL and more than $2 million in total staff payments and decides to go cheap and stand pat with remaining staff!

I don't know how to quantify whether they will "overreact," but there's almost no chance that Parker is going to get the permanent job.

There are too many successful head coaches out there that are interested in our job to think they'll all ultimately turn us down, and even if they somehow do, I doubt we hire Parker over Coggin anyway.

[PGHBulldogBG]

I don't know how to quantify whether they will "overreact," but there's almost no chance that Parker is going to get the permanent job.

There are too many successful head coaches out there that are interested in our job to think they'll all ultimately turn us down, and even if they somehow do, I doubt we hire Parker over Coggin anyway.

The only way I would hire him is if we wins the natty which is about as likely as us winning 10 games in football this year

[TheLostDawg]

basedog mentioned "he or they" - so that could mean Tom Walter with Corey Muscara agreed to come as PC. That would not be a bad pull.

Are we sure it isn't a Cohen hire and two HC?

[Quaoarsking]

The only way I would hire him is if we wins the natty which is about as likely as us winning 10 games in football this year

Yeah, I would have a hard time objecting at that point ... BUT I think we announce our hire before the Supers, or possibly before the Regionals, so it will be a moot point even if he does it.

[Todd4State]

Yeah, I would have a hard time objecting at that point ... BUT I think we announce our hire before the Supers, or possibly before the Regionals, so it will be a moot point even if he does it.

MSU may have learned something from the Schlossnagle/Gary Henderson saga.

[Todd4State]

4 or 5 % chance Selmon and Keenum "over-react?" I think the % chance they "over-react is much higher!" Not over 50% so that is why I qualified my point by saying we need to hire a sitting established successful Head Coach! I just don't trust Keenum who is Selmon's boss. These "so-called" behind the scenes baseball super supporters better tell Keenum they will withhold their large yearly donations if he doesn't support spending their donations on NIL and more than $2 million in total staff payments and decides to go cheap and stand pat with remaining staff!

At some point Keenum is going to have to tell the boosters that screwed up our football program and athletic department that we can afford to let them make decisions. They've lost privileges. Keenum should be able to promise them some sort of access no matter who the coach is.

That said I can't imagine why he would listen to them in this situation.

Although- and I guess I'm answering my own question here- they basically railroaded Cohen in as AD and I think they made up a bunch of excuses why we should hire Arnett that Keenum bought because Cohen had us so behind in NIL/portal.

[Todd4State]

One thing people need to remember. They made Parker the interim with the purpose of him possibly staying as the pitching coach. This isn't a head coach tryout.

[Coursesuper]

At some point Keenum is going to have to tell the boosters that screwed up our football program and athletic department that we can afford to let them make decisions. They've lost privileges. Keenum should be able to promise them some sort of access no matter who the coach is.

That said I can't imagine why he would listen to them in this situation.

Although- and I guess I'm answering my own question here- they basically railroaded Cohen in as AD and I think they made up a bunch of excuses why we should hire Arnett that Keenum bought because Cohen had us so behind in NIL/portal.

The guys running this search are baseball people and are uniquely situated to handle this. This is definitely not the same group that gave us Cohen as AD.

[Cooterpoot]

At some point Keenum is going to have to tell the boosters that screwed up our football program and athletic department that we can afford to let them make decisions. They've lost privileges. Keenum should be able to promise them some sort of access no matter who the coach is.

That said I can't imagine why he would listen to them in this situation.

Although- and I guess I'm answering my own question here- they basically railroaded Cohen in as AD and I think they made up a bunch of excuses why we should hire Arnett that Keenum bought because Cohen had us so behind in NIL/portal.

That was almost 100% Keenum

[DownwardDawg]

The guys running this search are baseball people and are uniquely situated to handle this. This is definitely not the same group that gave us Cohen as AD.

That is great news! I really want to believe you!!!!! Don't toy with me!

[Coursesuper]

That is great news! I really want to believe you!!!!! Don't toy with me!

They know what they are doing but, this is no slam dunk like a lot here think it will be.

[Santiago]

They know what they are doing but, this is no slam dunk like a lot here think it will be.

yep. Going for the right coach and getting that family here. Selmon will more than earn his pay.

[StateDawg44]

They know what they are doing but, this is no slam dunk like a lot here think it will be.

I'm not saying it should be easy or anything but our fans aren't the only ones who act like this is a premier job and will be garnering a ton of attention from good/great coaches.

When we fired Lemon there were several media outlets pointing to the fact that it's a big time open position that will be sought after.

I get both sides of the argument but I think the good out weighs the negatives enough to tip the scales more when it comes to the baseball job. Maybe not with FB or BkB.

[Coursesuper]

I'm not saying it should be easy or anything but our fans aren't the only ones who act like this is a premier job and will be garnering a ton of attention from good/great coaches.

When we fired Lemon there were several media outlets pointing to the fact that it's a big time open position that will be sought after.

I get both sides of the argument but I think the good out weighs the negatives enough to tip the scales more when it comes to the baseball job. Maybe not with FB or BkB.

Are you referring to the college baseball talking heads? We are a great job and I?m know we are seeing interest, but they are just media guys now. I have look at it like this. If I were a coach with an already great job, because that?s who we?re talking about. And I was approached about the State gig I?d have to think long and hard what do they have there that affords me the opportunity to succeed at a higher level than where I am now? Is this somewhere my family will want to go if they are already in a great situation? You have to look at every single aspect of it weigh it out and see if it?s for you and your family. I know that there are some jobs I?d not leave to come here, Oregon being one of those, why would you leave everything that Nike can put at your disposal on a day to day basis? I?m saying that this just isn?t a slam dunk that everyone in the nation will jump on our job that is just an unrealistic expectation, there are so many factors that go into this from both sides.

[Santiago]

Are you referring to the college baseball talking heads? We are a great job and I?m know we are seeing interest, but they are just media guys now. I have look at it like this. If I were a coach with an already great job, because that?s who we?re talking about. And I was approached about the State gig I?d have to think long and hard what do they have there that affords me the opportunity to succeed at a higher level than where I am now? Is this somewhere my family will want to go if they are already in a great situation? You have to look at every single aspect of it weigh it out and see if it?s for you and your family. I know that there are some jobs I?d not leave to come here, Oregon being one of those, why would you leave everything that Nike can put at your disposal on a day to day basis? I?m saying that this just isn?t a slam dunk that everyone in the nation will jump on our job that is just an unrealistic expectation, there are so many factors that go into this from both sides.

Oregon - easy path through the Big 10 every year also. Tell the coach leave Eugene and Nike, and all the monopoly on west coast players in your current conference, and come to the SEC into the deep south.
Things would have to go just right.

[Quaoarsking]

Oregon - easy path through the Big 10 every year also. Tell the coach leave Eugene and Nike, and all the monopoly on west coast players in your current conference, and come to the SEC into the deep south.
Things would have to go just right.

Counterpoint: the 3rd and 4th place teams in the Big 10 are on the bubble. The 13th place team in the SEC is a lock.

It's easy to see why an SEC job would appeal to a Big 10 coach.

[KB21]

Counterpoint: the 3rd and 4th place teams in the Big 10 are on the bubble. The 13th place team in the SEC is a lock.

It's easy to see why an SEC job would appeal to a Big 10 coach.

Yep. Iowa lead the Big 10 until the last week. Now, they are out of the postseason picture.

[StateDawg44]

Right. You can literally have a losing conference record and still make the tournament playing in the SEC.

If a coach isn't excited to grind it out in the SEC they likely wouldn't last at MSU either way with our fanbase.

[CaptainObvious]

All else being equal or tilted toward State financially, conference affiliation, baseball history(not just the past 15-20 years) by, fan support, administration support, facilities, recruiting footprint.... the ONLY thing that should factor in to the decision for a Coach with any kind of drive to be on top that might keep him from taking this job is 100% location and all that encompasses. Charlottesville or Starkville? Eugene or Starkville? Clemson or Starkville? Athens or Starkville? That's it!

I mean how many different color outfits can Nike dress the Ducks in? It's Baseball! Vendors provide the Bats and Balls! Most kids prefer to choose their own gloves and mitts! The Buses have the same number of seats! The bases are always 90 feet apart! The grass is usually green and the dirt brown or black in every natural turf stadium. The lights are pretty much ALL LED. The bleachers are hard and the Chairbacks are relatively comfortable. The beer and whiskey are usually from the same distilleries or distributors! Where you get to hang out when the sport isnt in season is the main difference for 18-23 year olds!

[Todd4State]

All else being equal or tilted toward State financially, conference affiliation, baseball history(not just the past 15-20 years) by, fan support, administration support, facilities, recruiting footprint.... the ONLY thing that should factor in to the decision for a Coach with any kind of drive to be on top that might keep him from taking this job is 100% location and all that encompasses. Charlottesville or Starkville? Eugene or Starkville? Clemson or Starkville? Athens or Starkville? That's it!

I mean how many different color outfits can Nike dress the Ducks in? It's Baseball! Vendors provide the Bats and Balls! Most kids prefer to choose their own gloves and mitts! The Buses have the same number of seats! The bases are always 90 feet apart! The grass is usually green and the dirt brown or black in every natural turf stadium. The lights are pretty much ALL LED. The bleachers are hard and the Chairbacks are relatively comfortable. The beer and whiskey are usually from the same distilleries or distributors! Where you get to hang out when the sport isnt in season is the main difference for 18-23 year olds!

I really don't understand the location thing. Most colleges are in smaller towns. If a coach is worried more about how far they are from the nearest Target then they're probably not a good fit for us anyway. MSU has access to transportation that will literally take them and their families anywhere they want to go in the US on the University dime. Howland used to use it to go to California and Leach used it to go to Key West.

Our fans are making the mistake of looking at this through the lens of what factors would be important to them in their personal profession. This is a completely different animal. You can come to MSU and coach here for five years and basically be set for life and be treated like royalty while making the Collegiate Baseball HOF potentially if you win big- and you are going to be given the resources to do so and you are in the right conference to recruit too. Which are MAJOR issues in Charlottesville, Oregon, and if you ask Erik Bakich- Clemson. Georgia meanwhile only outdrew ONE team in the SEC and that was Mizzou. That's the program we have some fans trying to rationalize away as somehow being on par with MSU.

[Todd4State]

That was almost 100% Keenum

Oh really? Keenum told the Clarion-Ledger he was going to hire Cohen before the interview process was over?

[Santiago]

I really don't understand the location thing. Most colleges are in smaller towns. If a coach is worried more about how far they are from the nearest Target then they're probably not a good fit for us anyway. MSU has access to transportation that will literally take them and their families anywhere they want to go in the US on the University dime. Howland used to use it to go to California and Leach used it to go to Key West.

Our fans are making the mistake of looking at this through the lens of what factors would be important to them in their personal profession. This is a completely different animal. You can come to MSU and coach here for five years and basically be set for life and be treated like royalty while making the Collegiate Baseball HOF potentially if you win big- and you are going to be given the resources to do so and you are in the right conference to recruit too. Which are MAJOR issues in Charlottesville, Oregon, and if you ask Erik Bakich- Clemson. Georgia meanwhile only outdrew ONE team in the SEC and that was Mizzou. That's the program we have some fans trying to rationalize away as somehow being on par with MSU.


For the coaches that are all about baseball and above the other things in life, then yes we are a perfect landing spot.
We have a commitment to $$$, and that really is the bottom line over everything . Alot of excitement on our financial commitment.

[KB21]

Heard some things last night that make me believe that O?Connor is happening. Let?s see if we can cross the finish line on this.

[KOdawg1]

Heard some things last night that make me believe that O?Connor is happening. Let?s see if we can cross the finish line on this.

I'm not an insider by any means, but I have too..

[Todd4State]

If O'Conner becomes the coach look for his top assistant Kevin McMullen to take over at Virginia. That means we will most likely be in the market for a hitting coach. I suspect he would bring his pitching coach Drew Dickenson with him.

[BigDawg81]

Heard some things last night that make me believe that O?Connor is happening. Let?s see if we can cross the finish line on this.

I have heard twice last week and last night that we already got someone but you will not hear anything about it until both of our seasons are over. I don’t believe but that is what I heard.

[KB21]

The other thing is, the national guys like Kendall Rogers and Mark Etheridge keep saying that because of the house settlement, a program like us may be able to pull someone who normally wouldn't leave where they are at. I think the O'Connor talk is definitely in the ether. It also seems like the search won't get passed Mark Wasikowski if O'Connor does end up staying at UVA.

[KB21]

If O'Conner becomes the coach look for his top assistant Kevin McMullen to take over at Virginia. That means we will most likely be in the market for a hitting coach. I suspect he would bring his pitching coach Drew Dickenson with him.

Maybe. The thing with McMullen is that he's 58 years old or so. I'm not sure UVA will go the first-time head coach route with a coach that old. If McMullen were to get that job, then to be quite honest, Jake Gautreau's reputation in college baseball is a lot better than it is in the Mississippi State fanbase right now. I can see a scenario where O'Connor keeps him.

[msstate7]

Heard some things last night that make me believe that O?Connor is happening. Let?s see if we can cross the finish line on this.

This would be a strong hire

[Quaoarsking]

As an "O'Connor or Bust" guy since the day Lemonis was fired, I can't wait to recant every negative thing I've ever said about Selmon.

[Santiago]

As an "O'Connor or Bust" guy since the day Lemonis was fired, I can't wait to recant every negative thing I've ever said about Selmon.

He should be hoisted upon shoulders again on the HC arrival at the airport.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Heard some things last night that make me believe that O?Connor is happening. Let?s see if we can cross the finish line on this.

O’Conner may very well be the next HC. He will not be the first offer though. And I doubt he is the second.

[AlSwearengen]

If O'Conner becomes the coach look for his top assistant Kevin McMullen to take over at Virginia. That means we will most likely be in the market for a hitting coach. I suspect he would bring his pitching coach Drew Dickenson with him.

That is an "older" staff. I wouldn't mind having a little youth on the staff for several reasons.

[Activated Alpha]

O?Conner may very well be the next HC. He will not be the first offer though. And I doubt he is the second.

Who would be offered over O'Connor first and even 2nd? And don't you dare say Justin Parker or I will dismantle the Dude one brick at a time

[KB21]

O’Conner may very well be the next HC. He will not be the first offer though. And I doubt he is the second.

I can't imagine who would be offered before O'Connor.

[KOdawg1]

O’Conner may very well be the next HC. He will not be the first offer though. And I doubt he is the second.
Umm if we offer two people before we offer O'Conner we've got a toddler in charge of the phone.

[KB21]

Umm if we offer two people before we offer O'Conner we've got a toddler in charge of the phone.

Yeah, unless they first contacts they make are Vitello and Schlossnagle, which will not happen.

Are we really thinking they offer Wes Johnson before offering O'Connor?

[KOdawg1]

Yeah, unless they first contacts they make are Vitello and Schlossnagle, which will not happen.

Are we really thinking they offer Wes Johnson before offering O'Connor?

I might could be talked into Bakich over BOC, but probably not even then.

[Todd4State]

O’Conner may very well be the next HC. He will not be the first offer though. And I doubt he is the second.

The plot thickens.

[Todd4State]

I might could be talked into Bakich over BOC, but probably not even then.

Bakich is probably the closest we could come to getting a Tony Vitello clone without it being Vitello.

[State82]

O’Conner may very well be the next HC. He will not be the first offer though. And I doubt he is the second.

Well that is very interesting right there.

[Quaoarsking]

The only sitting head coach not in the SEC I could see hiring above O'Connor is Bakich, and even then I probably wouldn't.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Yeah, unless they first contacts they make are Vitello and Schlossnagle, which will not happen.

Are we really thinking they offer Wes Johnson before offering O'Connor?

Erik Bakich says hello. And he is not the first offer.

You can find out who that is pretty easily. There is an interesting YouTube video out there after Notre Dame wrapped up their season in 21. The comments made will lead you to the first offer. He will not accept, but we are swinging big.

[KB21]

I'm not offering Bakich before O'Connor. I'm not against hiring him at all, but I'd have O'Connor above him.

[Todd4State]

Erik Bakich says hello. And he is not the first offer.

You can find out who that is pretty easily. There is an interesting YouTube video out there after Notre Dame wrapped up their season in 21. The comments made will lead you to the first offer. He will not accept, but we are swinging big.

If we're swinging that big then we're swinging big for some others too.

[Todd4State]

I'm not offering Bakich before O'Connor. I'm not against hiring him at all, but I'd have O'Connor above him.

They're basically equal to me.

[Todd4State]

Maybe. The thing with McMullen is that he's 58 years old or so. I'm not sure UVA will go the first-time head coach route with a coach that old. If McMullen were to get that job, then to be quite honest, Jake Gautreau's reputation in college baseball is a lot better than it is in the Mississippi State fanbase right now. I can see a scenario where O'Connor keeps him.

Gautreau has done a good job overall with the hitters. My biggest issue with him is identifying signability.

[basedog]

"Brace yourself". it's getting interesting, and those saying "typical Msu". Selmon is doing his job, things could change but at least we have a few backup plans.

[basedog]

If we're swinging that big then we're swinging big for some others too.

No doubt.

[Todd4State]

That is an "older" staff. I wouldn't mind having a little youth on the staff for several reasons.

We need quality as much or more than anything. Hire the most elite coach we can find. And then do the same with pitching and hitting coaches.

[StarkVegasSteve]

If we're swinging that big then we're swinging big for some others too.

Like I said yesterday, with how we are going to fund baseball in the Rev Share era we are going to be an EXTREMELY attractive destination for college baseball coaches, as well as some MLB coaches. And with when we fired Lemonis, we got an early jump on things.

[Cooterpoot]

Erik Bakich says hello. And he is not the first offer.

You can find out who that is pretty easily. There is an interesting YouTube video out there after Notre Dame wrapped up their season in 21. The comments made will lead you to the first offer. He will not accept, but we are swinging big.

His buyout is huge

I still think it's O'Connor, Was, Fitz. I can't see Wes, Bakich, or Walter happening, and honestly, O'Connor is questionable even if interested. Was and Fitz would walk here if offered. Fitz is a bigger gamble. Bloomquist would be failure.

[BrunswickDawg]

Erik Bakich says hello. And he is not the first offer.

You can find out who that is pretty easily. There is an interesting YouTube video out there after Notre Dame wrapped up their season in 21. The comments made will lead you to the first offer. He will not accept, but we are swinging big.

Interesting. That is a big swing.

[StarkVegasSteve]

His buyout is huge

I have been told multiple times that buyout WILL NOT be an issue at any amount. We have the funds to pay whatever buyout we need.

[Cooterpoot]

I have been told multiple times that buyout WILL NOT be an issue at any amount. We have the funds to pay whatever buyout we need.

I've been told we will not over pay. We aren't spending $10MM to flip this staff. Now, if Gotro and Parker stay, that might make more sense. Bakich is interested but that 5MM+ buyout is crazy. His contract runs through 2030.

[StarkVegasSteve]

I can say with pretty good confidence that we have gauged the interest of all the top coaches, and that includes Tony Vitello. Now most of them say they are not interested and we move on but we are leaving no stone unturned.

[StarkVegasSteve]

I've been told we will not over pay. We aren't spending $10MM to flip this staff. Now, if Gotro and Parker stay, that might make more sense.

Parker staying is probably 20/80 stay/go. I actually think there is a decent to good chance Jake stays. Jake is thought of as a top 3 assistant in the country. If he was not retained he would be unemployed for about a day.

[Cooterpoot]

Parker staying is probably 20/80 stay/go. I actually think there is a decent to good chance Jake stays. Jake is thought of as a top 3 assistant in the country. If he was not retained he would be unemployed for about a day.

I'm good with Gotro staying and I don't care about Parker either way. With Lem gone, Gotro can do more. Happy as hell to cut Cheese!

[StarkVegasSteve]

I'm good with Gotro staying and I don't care about Parker either way. With Lem gone, Gotro can do more. Happy as hell to cut Cheese!

Yea it is a 0 percent chance he stays. Lem actually convinced him to stay and finish the season funny enough. They offered all the assistants a chance to go ahead and leave with Lemonis and to his credit he told all the assistants to stay and finish the job.

[KB21]

Yea it is a 0 percent chance he stays. Lem actually convinced him to stay and finish the season funny enough. They offered all the assistants a chance to go ahead and leave with Lemonis and to his credit he told all the assistants to stay and finish the job.

Dang. Who would have coached the team if they had all left? Ron Polk?

[StarkVegasSteve]

Dang. Who would have coached the team if they had all left? Ron Polk?

I think they knew that one of them would accept the interim job, most assumed Parker would stay regardless since he had no real ties to Lemonis, so he was the obvious interim choice. They also knew if push came to shove they could lean on Jake and his connection with the kids and he would take it.

[DawgFromOxford]

Dang. Who would have coached the team if they had all left? Ron Polk?
Stone Simmons got a lot of experiencing coaching over at 1st. Could?ve promoted him ***

[Quaoarsking]

Erik Bakich says hello. And he is not the first offer.

You can find out who that is pretty easily. There is an interesting YouTube video out there after Notre Dame wrapped up their season in 21. The comments made will lead you to the first offer. He will not accept, but we are swinging big.

Link Jarrett?

I'd be fine with hiring him, but are we really going to pull him away from his alma mater?

[Coursesuper]

Link Jarrett?

I'd be fine with hiring him, but are we really going to pull him away from his alma mater?

NO

[Quaoarsking]

If our offer order goes: 1. Jarrett, 2. Bakich, 3. O'Connor, 4. Wasikowski, we're getting a really good coach, and I'm betting on O'Connor.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Link Jarrett?

I'd be fine with hiring him, but are we really going to pull him away from his alma mater?

No. Which is why I said he will not accept it. But there was some interest there.

[CaptainObvious]

No. Which is why I said he will not accept it. But there was some interest there.

Wait. Interest by who? If he has shown interest, I can think of only 3 reasons he wouldn't get it or take it. They don't show interest just to string ADs along.

1) we didn't reciprocate the interest
2) both parties couldn't come to gather on the specific "commitments"
3) He is milking FSU for a stronger "commitment".

[TNDawg35]

Wait. Interest by who? If he has shown interest, I can think of only 3 reasons he wouldn't get it or take it. They don't show interest just to string ADs along.

1) we didn't reciprocate the interest
2) both parties couldn't come to gather on the specific "commitments"
3) He is milking FSU for a stronger "commitment".

Word is FSU made alot of promises last year and then went back on them. Pissed him off to the point where he is "looking". Heard same thing about Bakich. They pretty much told him they were not allocating a,lot of funds and football and basketball would get the majority.

People have to remember. The house settlement is coming. Schools are picking and choosing what they spend money on, and baseball is a distant thought for most. Luckily for us, we are going all in sounds like. Coaches are going to jump at the opportunity to have a job like that no matter what some posters on here say. There is a reason we are getting big name interest.

[Coach34]

House settlement my ass. That’s a big bunch of BS.

Football programs are spending 30MM or more this year on their teams. They aren’t going back to 10-12MM. You guys are kidding yourselves with all that. This dream of policing money to the players is just that- a dream

[Pancho]

you don't have faith in tuberville and saban? why is the house deal a load of baloney?

[Cooterpoot]

House settlement my ass. That’s a big bunch of BS.

Football programs are spending 30MM or more this year on their teams. They aren’t going back to 10-12MM. You guys are kidding yourselves with all that. This dream of policing money to the players is just that- a dream

This^^
A lot of folks don't understand how it's going to go.

[Todd4State]

House settlement my ass. That’s a big bunch of BS.

Football programs are spending 30MM or more this year on their teams. They aren’t going back to 10-12MM. You guys are kidding yourselves with all that. This dream of policing money to the players is just that- a dream

Completely different discussion with regards to baseball.

Fact of the matter is for many schools they simply don't have 30 million just laying around and it's going to take time for them to build that up.

One way to fill the gap even if it is firing a rock at Godzilla is to take it from baseball. And that may very well benefit us this job cycle.