MSU Post Draft Fallout

[Todd4State]

I am very happy with how we came out of the draft. We didn't lose anyone we didn't expect to lose. We kept at least one and probably two players we felt were high risk of leaving. We lost one portal pitcher who I wasn't real wild about being in the rotation. We kept Aiden Teel who is an elite CF. I'm not surprised that Siary went pro. He needed to. We have a ton of elite arms and he shouldn't come back and run the risk of being the midweek guy his senior year. Williams needed to leave because he could have very well gotten lost in the bullpen. We kept Ben Davis which was a big piece to have return.

Since practice hasn't started yet I'm going to run down the lineup and put together a what I would do if I were in O'Connor's shoes and as things begin in the fall and spring will adapt the lineup.

Fri- Tomas Valincius- I think he has this spot locked down. Team USA player.
Sat- Tyler Pitzer- Misused at South Carolina he has been dominant in the Cape making the All-Star team with an ERA under 1.00.
Sun- Chuck Foster- Pitched very well when healthy. Has struggled some in the Cape but I'm not sure if he is 100% or not. Only allowed three hits all year and once he gets the walks down some he will be elite.
Midweek- Ben Davis- He is perfect for this role. He has dominated non-SEC competition as a starter including winning an elimination game in a regional. Also has the ability and SEC experience to be a solid relief pitcher in SEC play.

Closer- Ryan McPherson- Certainly will be in the mix to start. And eventually he will. But for 2026 I think he follows a career arc similar to Landon Sims. Closer, possible multi-inning guy which we really haven't truly had since Sims left where we can use him anywhere from the 7th to 9th innings. Team USA player.
Set-up- Maddox Webb- The former Citadel closer is one of my favorite pick ups. I think he could have a pretty quick impact at MSU
Relief Ace- Dane Burns- Parker loves him and you can see the potential mixed in with the up and down performances at times. I think he takes a big step this year.

Wild cards- I have four of them for the pitching staff.

1. Jack Bauer- I'm going to get the obvious out of the way here. The guy is able to throw 103 but his command needs refinement. Unless Parker does some amazing work with him I'm not expecting a lot from him this year other than some midweek appearances. That said, Parker can do some amazing things so it's not out of the realm of possibility that he contributes next year. I think if he does it's most likely in short relief but if he makes major strides I could see them letting him be the closer with McPherson in the rotation best case scenario. His career will be interesting to follow but if he can follow a similar development path as Loo he could be incredible.

2. William Kirk- This is a sneaky good pick up by O'Connor. He is recovering from an injury but was one of the top high school pitchers in the country coming out of high school. I would not be surprised if we hear his name a lot when scrimmages start.

3. Duke Stone- MSU saved him from the portal. He has performed very well in the Cape. MSU has some big plans for him but we'll see exactly where he fits in.

4. Parker Rhodes- Potential draft risk who performed well at MLB draft combine. The floor for him in 2026 is as a match up guy but his role could certainly expand based on his performance. The talent is there to make an expanded role a reality.

Now for the position groups.

C- Kevin Milewski- I feel pretty certain that he starts. The CS numbers are concerning so it will be interesting to see how Matt Kirby, MSU's new catching coach, develops him. He does have the potential to hit 10-15 home runs and his strike out to walk ratio is pretty good- which is going to be a theme under O'Connor.
C- Andrew Raymond- He's a younger catcher with two years of eligibility left. He doesn't have the power that Milewski has but he has better defensive stats and a better K/BB ratio. I think he will likely be our starter in 2027.
Wild Card- Tanner Beliveau. He could play a number of positions but I think this is where he may end up.


1B- Gehrig Frei- Lemonis did him dirty but not playing him more early. I could easily see him hitting 15-20 home runs with full time play. I picked him here because of his SEC experience and he is unique because he is a switch hitter who would be very athletic for a first baseman. I just think he could excel at first base.
2B- Chone James- Not many fans are talking about him but O'Connor added him for a reason. He only played half a season at UVA but his .373 and stole 4 bases. I don't think he is likely to sustain .373 across a full SEC season but I do think .310 is reasonable with 10+ steals.
3B- Ace Reese- He has a very real chance to contend for the SEC Triple Crown. Likely first round pick next year. I think his defense will improve immensely under O'Connor. Team USA player
SS- Drew Wyers- Here's the dirtbag MSU fans love! He hit .407 with 11 home runs and was the American East POY. Not sure I expect those numbers from him but I think .350 with 10 home runs is realistic. He does not strike out and walks a lot and he chipped in 9 stolen bases while being a Brooks Wallace Award Semi-finalist.
Wild Card- Ryder Woodson- could be the SS or 3B of the future. Small sample size but his .733 SLG stands out. Will be interesting to watch him in the fall and spring. Has two years left before becoming draft eligible.
Wild Card- Blake Bevis- Going to be hard to keep a senior who smashed 18 home runs on the bench.

LF- Bryce Chance- Yes, we could start Frei here and Bevis at first. Yes, Jacob Parker or Peter Mershon are also capable of winning a spot. And Reed Stallworth could also win a spot. But let's be honest here- Bryce Chance always finds a way to get into the lineup. And I think he does it again especially on a team short with SEC experience. He has played a ton of baseball and most of his numbers improved despite striking out more than he did in 2024. With Kevin McMullen having more emphasis on striking out less we'll see if Chance becomes a combination of the best of 2024 and 2025.
CF- Aidan Teel- Getting him through the draft was huge. He's a top 100 draft type prospect and is an elite defender. He also hit 7 home runs and walks more than he strikes out.
RF- James Nunnalee- Has also played LF at Virginia and our fans should be very excited about him. This is a true leadoff hitter who hit .296 as a freshman and only struck out 13 times while walking 18. He has two year left before becoming draft eligible and he should improve into a .300+ hitter with 10+ steals easily.
Wild card- Jacob Parker- The power is real. And yes, he was drafted by the Diamondbacks but most expect him to come to MSU. He is also extremely athletic and if he adapts quickly could start very soon for MSU.
Wild card- Peter Mershon- He is the highest rated player in the Mershon family and I don't think we can rule anyone out in that family as far as making an impact right away.
Wild card- Vytas Valincius- He has the ability to play first base but is a LF by trade. He led Illinois in batting average last year while also walking more than he struck out. He started out at South Carolina and will be a fifth year senior. I'm curious to see how much power he has since his build seems like a player that should be able to hit more than 7 home runs.

DH- Noah Sullivan- He was as advertised last year and has SEC experience. I can't see us sitting a guy with a one dot OPS in SEC play and as a fifth year senior he really could potentially hit 20 home runs. He is another guy who we may see cut down on his strike outs under McMullen so that will be interesting to watch. The only bad thing is he is basically a DH only guy and that makes it difficult to get others into the lineup.
Wildcard- Reed Stallman- We'll see if he goes pro but he will contend for a lot of spots. I don't think he has a chance to beat out Sullivan but I do think he will factor in at other positions.

Going forward under O'Connor I think we will see better fundamentals defensively and a lot more walks and a lot less striking out. In a way I think it's perfect for MSU because it kind of reminds me of Ron Polk except that O'Connor has won a NC and knows what it takes to do that. Also, with him being from Omaha I think he will be very motivated to go to the CWS as much as he can. I think Parker has more to work with this year and more guys that have been developed so I think we will see some improvement on the mound as well. Also, enjoy this portal class because going forward I don't think this is going to be the norm. I think O'Connor is going to do a better job than Lemonis in terms of identifying signability and I think we're going to get our share of high end players going forward. Really excited about MSU baseball and looking forward to next season and the O'Connor era!

[DownwardDawg]

Great write up!! Thanks Todd!!!

[basedog]

Positive post, the future looks good, we needed someone like BOC as a head coach for any sport at Msu for many reasons. BOC has put together a really good staff, I believe we will see the "swag" back at the Dude now.

[somebodyshotmypaw]

Some good details Todd. Thanks.

[Tater]

I'll go on record and say after how we made out like bandits in the draft - We will be preseason top 5. Maybe number 1.

This team on paper is more exciting than 2019.

I know it's year 1, but expectations will be high. Quite frankly it's Omaha or bust.

[basedog]

I just read where 7 of Sec schools made the top 10 schools with most players drafted. Ark tied with Fsu with the most, 11 drafted. Ole Dixie had 9.

[Tater]

I just read where 7 of Sec schools made the top 10 schools with most players drafted. Ark tied with Fsu with the most, 11 drafted. Ole Dixie had 9.

Justin Parker in two years at MSU has had 14 pitchers drafted. Pretty good.

[basedog]

Justin Parker in two years at MSU has had 14 pitchers drafted. Pretty good.

Yep, and BOC is a Pitching guy also, can't help but get better.

[ZedFedder]

We are deeeeeeeeeeeeep.

[StarkVegasSteve]

I am very happy with how we came out of the draft. We didn't lose anyone we didn't expect to lose. We kept at least one and probably two players we felt were high risk of leaving. We lost one portal pitcher who I wasn't real wild about being in the rotation. We kept Aiden Teel who is an elite CF. I'm not surprised that Siary went pro. He needed to. We have a ton of elite arms and he shouldn't come back and run the risk of being the midweek guy his senior year. Williams needed to leave because he could have very well gotten lost in the bullpen. We kept Ben Davis which was a big piece to have return.

Since practice hasn't started yet I'm going to run down the lineup and put together a what I would do if I were in O'Connor's shoes and as things begin in the fall and spring will adapt the lineup.

Fri- Tomas Valincius- I think he has this spot locked down. Team USA player.
Sat- Tyler Pitzer- Misused at South Carolina he has been dominant in the Cape making the All-Star team with an ERA under 1.00.
Sun- Chuck Foster- Pitched very well when healthy. Has struggled some in the Cape but I'm not sure if he is 100% or not. Only allowed three hits all year and once he gets the walks down some he will be elite.
Midweek- Ben Davis- He is perfect for this role. He has dominated non-SEC competition as a starter including winning an elimination game in a regional. Also has the ability and SEC experience to be a solid relief pitcher in SEC play.

Closer- Ryan McPherson- Certainly will be in the mix to start. And eventually he will. But for 2026 I think he follows a career arc similar to Landon Sims. Closer, possible multi-inning guy which we really haven't truly had since Sims left where we can use him anywhere from the 7th to 9th innings. Team USA player.
Set-up- Maddox Webb- The former Citadel closer is one of my favorite pick ups. I think he could have a pretty quick impact at MSU
Relief Ace- Dane Burns- Parker loves him and you can see the potential mixed in with the up and down performances at times. I think he takes a big step this year.

Wild cards- I have four of them for the pitching staff.

1. Jack Bauer- I'm going to get the obvious out of the way here. The guy is able to throw 103 but his command needs refinement. Unless Parker does some amazing work with him I'm not expecting a lot from him this year other than some midweek appearances. That said, Parker can do some amazing things so it's not out of the realm of possibility that he contributes next year. I think if he does it's most likely in short relief but if he makes major strides I could see them letting him be the closer with McPherson in the rotation best case scenario. His career will be interesting to follow but if he can follow a similar development path as Loo he could be incredible.

2. William Kirk- This is a sneaky good pick up by O'Connor. He is recovering from an injury but was one of the top high school pitchers in the country coming out of high school. I would not be surprised if we hear his name a lot when scrimmages start.

3. Duke Stone- MSU saved him from the portal. He has performed very well in the Cape. MSU has some big plans for him but we'll see exactly where he fits in.

4. Parker Rhodes- Potential draft risk who performed well at MLB draft combine. The floor for him in 2026 is as a match up guy but his role could certainly expand based on his performance. The talent is there to make an expanded role a reality.

Now for the position groups.

C- Kevin Milewski- I feel pretty certain that he starts. The CS numbers are concerning so it will be interesting to see how Matt Kirby, MSU's new catching coach, develops him. He does have the potential to hit 10-15 home runs and his strike out to walk ratio is pretty good- which is going to be a theme under O'Connor.
C- Andrew Raymond- He's a younger catcher with two years of eligibility left. He doesn't have the power that Milewski has but he has better defensive stats and a better K/BB ratio. I think he will likely be our starter in 2027.
Wild Card- Tanner Beliveau. He could play a number of positions but I think this is where he may end up.


1B- Gehrig Frei- Lemonis did him dirty but not playing him more early. I could easily see him hitting 15-20 home runs with full time play. I picked him here because of his SEC experience and he is unique because he is a switch hitter who would be very athletic for a first baseman. I just think he could excel at first base.
2B- Chone James- Not many fans are talking about him but O'Connor added him for a reason. He only played half a season at UVA but his .373 and stole 4 bases. I don't think he is likely to sustain .373 across a full SEC season but I do think .310 is reasonable with 10+ steals.
3B- Ace Reese- He has a very real chance to contend for the SEC Triple Crown. Likely first round pick next year. I think his defense will improve immensely under O'Connor. Team USA player
SS- Drew Wyers- Here's the dirtbag MSU fans love! He hit .407 with 11 home runs and was the American East POY. Not sure I expect those numbers from him but I think .350 with 10 home runs is realistic. He does not strike out and walks a lot and he chipped in 9 stolen bases while being a Brooks Wallace Award Semi-finalist.
Wild Card- Ryder Woodson- could be the SS or 3B of the future. Small sample size but his .733 SLG stands out. Will be interesting to watch him in the fall and spring. Has two years left before becoming draft eligible.
Wild Card- Blake Bevis- Going to be hard to keep a senior who smashed 18 home runs on the bench.

LF- Bryce Chance- Yes, we could start Frei here and Bevis at first. Yes, Jacob Parker or Peter Mershon are also capable of winning a spot. And Reed Stallworth could also win a spot. But let's be honest here- Bryce Chance always finds a way to get into the lineup. And I think he does it again especially on a team short with SEC experience. He has played a ton of baseball and most of his numbers improved despite striking out more than he did in 2024. With Kevin McMullen having more emphasis on striking out less we'll see if Chance becomes a combination of the best of 2024 and 2025.
CF- Aidan Teel- Getting him through the draft was huge. He's a top 100 draft type prospect and is an elite defender. He also hit 7 home runs and walks more than he strikes out.
RF- James Nunnalee- Has also played LF at Virginia and our fans should be very excited about him. This is a true leadoff hitter who hit .296 as a freshman and only struck out 13 times while walking 18. He has two year left before becoming draft eligible and he should improve into a .300+ hitter with 10+ steals easily.
Wild card- Jacob Parker- The power is real. And yes, he was drafted by the Diamondbacks but most expect him to come to MSU. He is also extremely athletic and if he adapts quickly could start very soon for MSU.
Wild card- Peter Mershon- He is the highest rated player in the Mershon family and I don't think we can rule anyone out in that family as far as making an impact right away.
Wild card- Vytas Valincius- He has the ability to play first base but is a LF by trade. He led Illinois in batting average last year while also walking more than he struck out. He started out at South Carolina and will be a fifth year senior. I'm curious to see how much power he has since his build seems like a player that should be able to hit more than 7 home runs.

DH- Noah Sullivan- He was as advertised last year and has SEC experience. I can't see us sitting a guy with a one dot OPS in SEC play and as a fifth year senior he really could potentially hit 20 home runs. He is another guy who we may see cut down on his strike outs under McMullen so that will be interesting to watch. The only bad thing is he is basically a DH only guy and that makes it difficult to get others into the lineup.
Wildcard- Reed Stallman- We'll see if he goes pro but he will contend for a lot of spots. I don't think he has a chance to beat out Sullivan but I do think he will factor in at other positions.

Going forward under O'Connor I think we will see better fundamentals defensively and a lot more walks and a lot less striking out. In a way I think it's perfect for MSU because it kind of reminds me of Ron Polk except that O'Connor has won a NC and knows what it takes to do that. Also, with him being from Omaha I think he will be very motivated to go to the CWS as much as he can. I think Parker has more to work with this year and more guys that have been developed so I think we will see some improvement on the mound as well. Also, enjoy this portal class because going forward I don't think this is going to be the norm. I think O'Connor is going to do a better job than Lemonis in terms of identifying signability and I think we're going to get our share of high end players going forward. Really excited about MSU baseball and looking forward to next season and the O'Connor era!

I think we'll platoon Bevis and Frei early with Frei also platooning a bit in the outfield with Chance and Nunnalee. Also wouldn't be shocked to see Reed Stallman out there early in the year as well.

[StarkVegasSteve]

We are deeeeeeeeeeeeep.

I would be a bit surprised if we're NOT the preseason number 1 team in the country. We return a potential 1:1 guy in Ace Reese while also returning McPherson, Sullivan, Davis, Foster, and Bryce Chance. Add in to that we've brought in Valincius, Teel, Nunnalee, Wyers, Bevis, etc.

[maroonmania]

Biggest issue may be keeping some of these very talented guys happy with limited playing time. This is the deepest team I ever remember having. We could.lose a couple players to the portal after Fall practice just because there are only so many spots to go around in the field. Heck, we still have Sully coming back as a DH so that spot really isn't open either. If there is a better team on paper than we are going into 2026 I sure don't want to play them.

[Coach34]

Frie could platoon if he doesnt get better from the right side. I dont know the exact numbers- but he hit about .450 from the left side and .220 from the right side

[Offshore Dawg]

TFS, that was some of your best work. I enjoyed reading it.

[Pinto]

Todd, how many players will we have on campus this fall? How hard is it going to be to get to 34?

[State82]

Excellent work Todd.

[AlSwearengen]

Jacob Parker posted on twitter that he is headed to Starkville!

[maroonmania]

Jaob Parker posted on twitter that he is headed to Starkville!

Awesome! Big time win for the program to get him to campus.

[Coach34]

Jacob Parker posted on twitter that he is headed to Starkville!

The DBacks arent just going to quit. They drafted him with a plan. Their Top 10 rounds was almost all pitching with their last 3 picks college Sr's- so they wont have to pay them shit. Need August 1st to get here

[Cowbell]

Todd, how many players will we have on campus this fall? How hard is it going to be to get to 34?

Best way to get to 34 is to poke fun at Lemonis or tell em Leach was our saviour*** I kid I kid

[Cowbell]

The DBacks arent just going to quit. They drafted him with a plan. Their Top 10 rounds was almost all pitching with their last 3 picks college Sr's- so they wont have to pay them shit. Need August 1st to get here

He had earlier draft offers with more money that he turned down

[ZedFedder]

https://247sports.com/college/mississippi-state/article/jacob-parker-mississippi-state-mlb-draft-251763983/

Article straight from Parker.

[Tater]

The DBacks arent just going to quit. They drafted him with a plan. Their Top 10 rounds was almost all pitching with their last 3 picks college Sr's- so they wont have to pay them shit. Need August 1st to get here

Jacob Parker, OF, Purvis, MS

Parker is the less highly-regarded twin of JoJo Parker, who went to the Blue Jays in the first round. He was available in the 19th round not because of talent, but because he?s highly unlikely to sign. If he was regarded as signable, he would probably have gone in the second or third round. He?s a left-handed hitter with tremendous power, but with some swing-and-miss concerns. At the combine, he was the first batter to top 110 MPH exit velocity, and he did so with a swing that looked relatively easy, albeit with a large toe tap that some might not like. He?s likely ticketed to first base eventually, but there?s a chance of a corner outfield spot or third base.

Still, out of all of the picks, this is the one that I can say with the greatest confidence will not sign, unless it?s the next guy.


That's what the DBacks beat writer said about him fyi. http://https://www.azsnakepit.com/2025/7/14/24467933/2025-draft-coverage-day-two-rounds-11-20 (https://www.azsnakepit.com/2025/7/14/24467933/2025-draft-coverage-day-two-rounds-11-20)

[StarkVegasSteve]

Jacob Parker, OF, Purvis, MS

Parker is the less highly-regarded twin of JoJo Parker, who went to the Blue Jays in the first round. He was available in the 19th round not because of talent, but because he?s highly unlikely to sign. If he was regarded as signable, he would probably have gone in the second or third round. He?s a left-handed hitter with tremendous power, but with some swing-and-miss concerns. At the combine, he was the first batter to top 110 MPH exit velocity, and he did so with a swing that looked relatively easy, albeit with a large toe tap that some might not like. He?s likely ticketed to first base eventually, but there?s a chance of a corner outfield spot or third base.

Still, out of all of the picks, this is the one that I can say with the greatest confidence will not sign, unless it?s the next guy.


That's what the DBacks beat writer said about him fyi. http://https://www.azsnakepit.com/2025/7/14/24467933/2025-draft-coverage-day-two-rounds-11-20 (https://www.azsnakepit.com/2025/7/14/24467933/2025-draft-coverage-day-two-rounds-11-20)

Parker is going to make it to campus. Depending on how he adjusts, it could be really hard to keep him out of the lineup, even as a freshman.

[Pancho]

BOC will have to cut some really good players.........portal anyone?

[Coach34]

I believe he will be a Bulldog- just pointing out that it’s not technically over until Aug 1st

[Coach34]

BOC will have to cut some really good players.........portal anyone?

The OF is too crowded. Somebody has to go more than likely. Teel will start in CF. The corner spots will be a war.

[Tater]

Parker is going to make it to campus. Depending on how he adjusts, it could be really hard to keep him out of the lineup, even as a freshman.

With the talent we have, the team batting average needs to be at least .300 with an OBP of at least .400. We should threaten the 103 HR mark we set last year and chase an OPS of 1.000.

Scoring 10 per game would definitely be pushing it, but 9 should be totally attainable. (7.7 this past year).

Really if someone isn't a one dot OPS player, then someone else should be challenging for that bat. Very exciting times to be a State fan. I think the more I look at what others return, the more comfortable I am going with saying we'll be preseason #1.

[Saltydog]

Biggest issue may be keeping some of these very talented guys happy with limited playing time. This is the deepest team I ever remember having. We could.lose a couple players to the portal after Fall practice just because there are only so many spots to go around in the field. Heck, we still have Sully coming back as a DH so that spot really isn't open either. If there is a better team on paper than we are going into 2026 I sure don't want to play them.

No doubt and I was going to say the same thing. We're gonna have some guys that played a lot of ball for us this year and did fairly well that might not see much p/t next year. Stallman and Chance are the first two that come to mind.

[preachermatt83]

Phenomenal work Todd!

[Political Hack]

Thanks Todd!

[AlSwearengen]

Was Jacob legitimately 2nd or 3rd round potential? I was thinking, from reading the tea leaves that he was 3-5 round, but that he would most likely be signing. That is why I was so surprised to see him drop so far. If the Dback’s writer is correct about his signablity, I was way off in my assumptions.

[ZedFedder]

Was Jacob legitimately 2nd or 3rd round potential? I was thinking, from reading the tea leaves that he was 3-5 round, but that he would most likely be signing. That is why I was so surprised to see him drop so far. If the Dback’s writer is correct about his signablity, I was way off in my assumptions.

In the article I linked in this thread, he said he had a really good offer in the second round but he turned it down.

[Turfdawg67]

Jacob Parker posted on twitter that he is headed to Starkville!

Fan 17'n tastic!

[Turfdawg67]

Really enjoyed reading that! Thanks!

[The Federalist Engineer]

Mershons can play baseball, this dude is going earn a spot and be a star.

The Parker brother going to crush it at the Dude.

O'Conner has built a team of maulers. Enough Righty power to make shity lefties have PTSD nightmares.

[BeardoMSU]

Good stuff, Todd! (As usual)

[Activated Alpha]

Reading this gave me a baseball erection and it's only July. Cannot wait for the season to start

[AlSwearengen]

Watching Kendall Rogers’ twitter, it looks like quite a few portal transfers to other SEC schools were drafted or were expected to sign FA deals. One that stood out was Latta, the ss from out west that signed with A&M. His was a FA deal and I would have thought he could make more in NIL. I was a little disappointed to see Tenn get Ford, but he is from Chattanooga, so he probably grew up a fan. I wish nothing but the worst for Vitello though.

I’m sure it will take a little while for everything to shake out with the rest of the league, but it seems like we are in a good spot.

[basedog]

It’s great for me anyway to be excited for baseball once again. I plan on going back to the Dude as I have been absent the last two years.
I’ve been following MSU baseball longer than most on ED.

[Big4Dawg]

The DBacks arent just going to quit. They drafted him with a plan. Their Top 10 rounds was almost all pitching with their last 3 picks college Sr's- so they wont have to pay them shit. Need August 1st to get here
You?re such an odd guy lol

[Coach34]

You?re such an odd guy lol

Why? For pointing out the truth? Do you really think they drafted him only to take no for an answer on the first call? If I'm the DBacks GM- I'm working it and trying to make a deal. Top 5 round talent in the 19th round. Would be great to pull it off. If you think they just said **** it and moved on you're a moron

[MStateDawg]

Todd: this is an excellent write up. Really good stuff.

But, one thing I disagree with is this comment:

especially on a team short with SEC experience.

From last year's team, we return All 5 of the top hitters in Batting Average: Ace, Sully, Frei, Chance & Sanders
We return 4 of the 5 HR leaders: Ace, Sully, Stallman, Frei (lost Hunter)
We return 4 of the 6 RBIs leaders: Ace, Sully, Chance, Stallman (Lost Hunter & Powell)
We return 4 of the 6 SLG% leaders w/100+ abs: Ace, Sully, Stallman, Frei, Chance (lost Hunter & Powell)
We return 5 of the 6 OBP% leaders w/100+ abs: Sully, Ace, Frei, Sanders, Chance (lost Stevens)

That's a large chuck on the 2025 offensive production with tons of SEC experience returning. Next year is gonna be damned fun!

[Coach34]

I dont see any way Trout starts in the OF next Spring.

You cant play him ahead of Frei- clearly the better hitter with more power.
So now you got him going against Nunnalee, Val/Stallman/Parker for 1 spot. I dont like his "Chance"

Lemon was overly partial to his recruits to his detriment- BOC wont have that for Trout and he may even have that for his guy in Nunnalee.

[Homedawg]

I dont see any way Trout starts in the OF next Spring.

You cant play him ahead of Frei- clearly the better hitter with more power.
So now you got him going against Nunnalee, Val/Stallman/Parker for 1 spot. I dont like his "Chance"

Lemon was overly partial to his recruits to his detriment- BOC wont have that for Trout and he may even have that for his guy in Nunnalee.
While I don't disagree that he has his work cut out for him. He had better numbers in sec than nunlee had in the acc. It's going to be a hell of a fall camp.

[somebodyshotmypaw]

Todd: this is an excellent write up. Really good stuff.

But, one thing I disagree with is this comment:


From last year's team, we return All 5 of the top hitters in Batting Average: Ace, Sully, Frei, Chance & Sanders
We return 4 of the 5 HR leaders: Ace, Sully, Stallman, Frei (lost Hunter)
We return 4 of the 6 RBIs leaders: Ace, Sully, Chance, Stallman (Lost Hunter & Powell)
We return 4 of the 6 SLG% leaders w/100+ abs: Ace, Sully, Stallman, Frei, Chance (lost Hunter & Powell)
We return 5 of the 6 OBP% leaders w/100+ abs: Sully, Ace, Frei, Sanders, Chance (lost Stevens)

That's a large chuck on the 2025 offensive production with tons of SEC experience returning. Next year is gonna be damned fun!

Good research. Thanks.

[somebodyshotmypaw]

The DBacks arent just going to quit. They drafted him with a plan. Their Top 10 rounds was almost all pitching with their last 3 picks college Sr's- so they wont have to pay them shit. Need August 1st to get here

I agree. If I?m the Diamondbacks I would keep working on Parker. I would tell him that MSU?s outfield is too crowded and he might not get enough playing time. I would tell him that he and his brother might be in the same league and could play against each other. I wouldn?t draft him then rollover 24 hours later.

[Coach34]

While I don't disagree that he has his work cut out for him. He had better numbers in sec than nunlee had in the acc. It's going to be a hell of a fall camp.

Agree but in a dead heat this staff will go with Nunnalee. He has no connection with this staff. So he has to actually outplay people. Who would you sit to play him? Frei/Nunn/Val/Stallman/Parker?

[basedog]

While I don't disagree that he has his work cut out for him. He had better numbers in sec than nunlee had in the acc. It's going to be a hell of a fall camp.

I see good competition like you and others will bring the best out of each one. I wouldn’t count out Chance, he has gotten better every year and from what I have heard is a great team player.

[Tater]

Why? For pointing out the truth? Do you really think they drafted him only to take no for an answer on the first call? If I'm the DBacks GM- I'm working it and trying to make a deal. Top 5 round talent in the 19th round. Would be great to pull it off. If you think they just said **** it and moved on you're a moron

Hey man it's the truth that everyone on our roster could die of a brain aneurysm suddenly.

While it's technically the truth - it's weird to continually be negative and come across as wanting more to be right than for good things to happen to State. You're just a weirdo in that regard.

You convey the "I'm smarter than everyone" too much when you point out contrarian things. It's not a simple "got till august 1st to keep it that way" then move on. You've dug your heels in and basically want an argument over it. It's super weird.

[smootness]

Last year?s OPS for guys who currently will be on our roster (obviously some at varying Lu lower level of competition):

Wyers - 1.231
Reese - 1.140
Sullivan - 1.120
Milewski - 1.027
Stallman - .991
Frei - .990
Bevis - .984
Teel - .980
Valincius - .953
Chance - .865
Raymond - .824 (as a true fresh)
Nunnallee - .808 (as a true fresh)

Also Woodson posted 1.124 and James posted .933 in limited PAs as a true freshman.

I would be shocked if any team in America boasts that kind of production last year.

Add to that guys like Parker and Mershon who could easily figure in, and I think we are set up to have the best offense in the country and the best in our history.

[Activated Alpha]

Hey man it's the truth that everyone on our roster could die of a brain aneurysm suddenly.

While it's technically the truth - it's weird to continually be negative and come across as wanting more to be right than for good things to happen to State. You're just a weirdo in that regard.

You convey the "I'm smarter than everyone" too much when you point out contrarian things. It's not a simple "got till august 1st to keep it that way" then move on. You've dug your heels in and basically want an argument over it. It's super weird.

Yeah kid is wrong. Has been more wrong than right lately.

[Tater]

Last year?s OPS for guys who currently will be on our roster (obviously some at varying Lu lower level of competition):

Wyers - 1.231
Reese - 1.140
Sullivan - 1.120
Milewski - 1.027
Stallman - .991
Frei - .990
Bevis - .984
Teel - .980
Valincius - .953
Chance - .865
Raymond - .824 (as a true fresh)
Nunnallee - .808 (as a true fresh)

Also Woodson posted 1.124 and James posted .933 in limited PAs as a true freshman.

I would be shocked if any team in America boasts that kind of production last year.

Add to that guys like Parker and Mershon who could easily figure in, and I think we are set up to have the best offense in the country and the best in our history.

A team OPS of 1.000 while being in the SEC sounded nuts to write, but it really is an achievable goal if things break right for us. Exciting times.

[ZedFedder]

Sleeper impact guy for next year, for me at least, is Parker Rhodes. Nobody is talking about him, but he had serious draft buzz and blew up at the MLB Combine. He has great stuff and is more college ready than Bauer.

[AlSwearengen]

Sleeper impact guy for next year, for me at least, is Parker Rhodes. Nobody is talking about him, but he had serious draft buzz and blew up at the MLB Combine. He has great stuff and is more college ready than Bauer.

If Rhodes' reported fastball velo and spin rate are accurate, he is starting in a good spot.

[Tater]

Sleeper impact guy for next year, for me at least, is Parker Rhodes. Nobody is talking about him, but he had serious draft buzz and blew up at the MLB Combine. He has great stuff and is more college ready than Bauer.

Bauer is a guy I don't expect much from until end of Y2 and then big time Y3.

He strikes me as would have been better off being 4 years in single A ball, but hopefully it works out for him better than this armchair advisor suggests.

I'd love for him to have closer material and have his walkout music just be the 24 TV show clock ticking.

https://youtu.be/6nvKN_H4e-I?si=YMd9dpL7Qq91NXPp

[maroonmania]

Bauer is a guy I don't expect much from until end of Y2 and then big time Y3.

He strikes me as would have been better off being 4 years in single A ball, but hopefully it works out for him better than this armchair advisor suggests.

I'd love for him to have closer material and have his walkout music just be the 24 TV show clock ticking.

https://youtu.be/6nvKN_H4e-I?si=YMd9dpL7Qq91NXPp

Yes, it's imperative he wears #24. 🙂

[Coach34]

Hey man it's the truth that everyone on our roster could die of a brain aneurysm suddenly.

While it's technically the truth - it's weird to continually be negative and come across as wanting more to be right than for good things to happen to State. You're just a weirdo in that regard.

You convey the "I'm smarter than everyone" too much when you point out contrarian things. It's not a simple "got till august 1st to keep it that way" then move on. You've dug your heels in and basically want an argument over it. It's super weird.

aGAINNNNNN- I think he stays with us. But as I pointed out- the DBacks will come at him again. You guys act like guys dont show up at colleges in the summer but then end up signing MLB by the deadline. I'm not being negative or trying to be right about anything. Just pointing out facts. I remember LSU signing that 4-star QB and he was on campus working out with the football team- got drafted and signed MLB

[Coach34]

agreed on Bauer. I dont look for much out of him as a Freshman. His Soph year is when we should see the jump

[Tbonewannabe]

aGAINNNNNN- I think he stays with us. But as I pointed out- the DBacks will come at him again. You guys act like guys dont show up at colleges in the summer but then end up signing MLB by the deadline. I'm not being negative or trying to be right about anything. Just pointing out facts. I remember LSU signing that 4-star QB and he was on campus working out with the football team- got drafted and signed MLB

One thing is Parker said he turned down 2nd round money. How much could a 19th round pick get over slot to even get close to a number he already turned down? Also, I imagine he will get some NIL that they would also have to overpay.

I know they didn't draft him without a hope and prayer but it seems more likely he comes to State than sign. Now if he was in the 10th round then I could see them making a more serious run at him.

[Tater]

aGAINNNNNN- I think he stays with us. But as I pointed out- the DBacks will come at him again. You guys act like guys dont show up at colleges in the summer but then end up signing MLB by the deadline. I'm not being negative or trying to be right about anything. Just pointing out facts. I remember LSU signing that 4-star QB and he was on campus working out with the football team- got drafted and signed MLB

You literally cannot help yourself.

And buddy you don't have the charisma or money to pull off saying "I'm not doing this" while literally doing the thing you're saying you ain't doing. Stop tryna be someone you ain't.

[basedog]

One thing is Parker said he turned down 2nd round money. How much could a 19th round pick get over slot to even get close to a number he already turned down? Also, I imagine he will get some NIL that they would also have to overpay.

I know they didn't draft him without a hope and prayer but it seems more likely he comes to State than sign. Now if he was in the 10th round then I could see them making a more serious run at him.

What I am thinking when Parker stated he turned down second round money. His family wants him to attend college from what I have read. I believe him more so than what 34 has said. My point is so what? Let it ride and enjoy the moment instead of being "I told you guys so", Just saying.

[basedog]

You literally cannot help yourself.

And buddy you don't have the charisma or money to pull off saying "I'm not doing this" while literally doing the thing you're saying you ain't doing. Stop tryna be someone you ain't.

I don't think 34 understands what folks are saying about him. It's getting worse and I hope he changes.

[AlSwearengen]

What I am thinking when Parker stated he turned down second round money. His family wants him to attend college from what I have read. I believe him more so than what 34 has said. My point is so what? Let it ride and enjoy the moment instead of being "I told you guys so", Just saying.

I don't know this specific Parker family, but I know some of their cousins/aunts. I remember when the dad was in hs and got hurt and paralyzed playing football. He ended up going to law school and married his physical therapist. There are dentists, nurses, etc throughout the family. Education is obviously valued with the whole family.

edit to add: someone may come along and correct me on the wife being a physical therapist and that being how they met, but I'm pretty sure that is correct. It has been 20 years since I was in contact with the family members that I knew.

regardless, they are well regarded and we will be glad we have them.

[Lance Harbor]

I don't think 34 understands what folks are saying about him. It's getting worse and I hope he changes.

You can't fix stupid.

[99jc]

You can't fix stupid.

Look you may not like Lee but stupid he is not. Is he an irritating narcist at times, absolutely! He has good insight most of the time and I actually enjoy most of what he writes it takes all sorts to make the world interesting. I believe this board would be boring without him. I truly believe he gets off watching you all go full retard when he posts what he does. If he didn't get too you, you would just ignore him, but you can't!

[Saltydog]

Agree but in a dead heat this staff will go with Nunnalee. He has no connection with this staff. So he has to actually outplay people. Who would you sit to play him? Frei/Nunn/Val/Stallman/Parker?

I'd take him over Stallman. Yeah, Reed has some pop but he's scary in the OF and inconsistent at the plate.

[smootness]

No potential 2nd round pick is getting drafted in the 19th and signing unless they take significantly less money than they could have.

There is a reason the DBacks waited until the 19th round to draft him.

[KOdawg1]

My predictions:

1. Teel - CF (L)
2. Reese - 3B (L)
3. Sully - DH (R)
4. Frei - LF (S)
5. Bevis - 1B (R)
6. Milewski - C (R)
7. Nunnallee - RF (L)
8. Wyers - SS (R)
9. Woodson/James - 2B (R/R)

Bench bats: Parker, Mershon, Chance, Valincius, Sanders


Friday: Tomas Valincius
Saturday: McPherson
Friday: Kirk (the staff loves this guy)

Closer: Pitzer
Midweek: Ben Davis

Multi-inning fire hoses: Foster, Maddox Webb, Sweeney, Parker Rhodes, Duke Stone
Match up arms: Burns, Logar, Bauer (at least at first), Gleason, Booth, the other freshmen

No matter which way you dice it up and slice it, this roster is loaded. Omaha is the expectation. We should be preseason top 5 team and we ain't 2nd-5th....

[Coach34]

One thing is Parker said he turned down 2nd round money. How much could a 19th round pick get over slot to even get close to a number he already turned down? Also, I imagine he will get some NIL that they would also have to overpay.

Agreed and thats why I said I think he stays with us. Simply pointing out that the DBacks still have to Aug 1st to try and sign him has some panties in a wad around here

[Turfdawg67]

Look you may not like Lee but stupid he is not. Is he an irritating narcist at times, absolutely! He has good insight most of the time and I actually enjoy most of what he writes it takes all sorts to make the world interesting. I believe this board would be boring without him. I truly believe he gets off watching you all go full retard when he posts what he does. If he didn't get too you, you would just ignore him, but you can't!

Agreed. No doubt he does some stuff for clicks... which is fine. I enjoy his posts.

[The Federalist Engineer]

My predictions:

1. Teel - CF (L)
2. Reese - 3B (L)
3. Sully - DH (R)
4. Frei - LF (S)
5. Bevis - 1B (R)
6. Milewski - C (R)
7. Nunnallee - RF (L)
8. Wyers - SS (R)
9. Woodson/James - 2B (R/R)

Bench bats: Parker, Mershon, Chance, Valincius, Sanders


Friday: Tomas Valincius
Saturday: McPherson
Friday: Kirk (the staff loves this guy)

Closer: Pitzer
Midweek: Ben Davis

Multi-inning fire hoses: Foster, Maddox Webb, Sweeney, Parker Rhodes, Duke Stone
Match up arms: Burns, Logar, Bauer (at least at first), Gleason, Booth, the other freshmen

No matter which way you dice it up and slice it, this roster is loaded. Omaha is the expectation. We should be preseason top 5 team and we ain't 2nd-5th....

(1) Frei is ok, hit 300 in the SEC, just so. But also a marginal defender. He is not a likely OF starter with this depth.
(2) Bevis is likely a PH in 2026. Plenty of big Athletes for 1B. HS like mine put big clumsy kids at 1B, so in college, you can expect many options. Valincius, Parker, Mershon, and maybe Frei will challenge for 1B. Bevis was not a starting 1B for Ball State.
(3) I hope Sully makes a jump in production from his good 2025 numbers
(4) I hope Milewski hits better than a 6 hole. We need him to mash.

[KOdawg1]

(1) Frei is ok, hit 300 in the SEC, just so. But also a marginal defender. He is not a likely OF starter with this depth.
(2) Bevis is likely a PH in 2026. Plenty of big Athletes for 1B. HS like mine put big clumsy kids at 1B, so in college, you can expect many options. Valincius, Parker, Mershon, and maybe Frei will challenge for 1B. Bevis was not a starting 1B for Ball State.
(3) I hope Sully makes a jump in production from his good 2025 numbers
(4) I hope Milewski hits better than a 6 hole. We need him to mash.

1. When you've got Teel and Nunnallee as the other 2 OFers, you can afford to play Frei in LF. Could see him platoon with Chance or Valincius because he's elite from the left side. His bat is too good to keep out.
2. I'm willing to bet Bevis is more than a PH. He had some draft talk to him.
3. As long as Sully repeats his 25 numbers, we're good.
4. Being the 6 hole in this lineup ain't no joke. We're stacked.

[MStateDawg]

I hope Sully makes a jump in production from his good 2025 numbers

His ?good 2025????
This is a stupid take. Sully had a GREAT 2025 season. He hit .345 with 15HRs and an OBP of 1.120! Not to mention his clutch and situational hitting were top tier. He was easily our 2nd best hitter behind Ace. We?ll be blessed if he can repeat those phenomenal numbers.

[Todd4State]

My predictions:

1. Teel - CF (L)
2. Reese - 3B (L)
3. Sully - DH (R)
4. Frei - LF (S)
5. Bevis - 1B (R)
6. Milewski - C (R)
7. Nunnallee - RF (L)
8. Wyers - SS (R)
9. Woodson/James - 2B (R/R)

Bench bats: Parker, Mershon, Chance, Valincius, Sanders


Friday: Tomas Valincius
Saturday: McPherson
Friday: Kirk (the staff loves this guy)

Closer: Pitzer
Midweek: Ben Davis

Multi-inning fire hoses: Foster, Maddox Webb, Sweeney, Parker Rhodes, Duke Stone
Match up arms: Burns, Logar, Bauer (at least at first), Gleason, Booth, the other freshmen

No matter which way you dice it up and slice it, this roster is loaded. Omaha is the expectation. We should be preseason top 5 team and we ain't 2nd-5th....

What's crazy about your lineup is the 8th hitter in yours is a guy that hit over .400 with 11 home runs in a mid major league. He probably would have been our number two hitter in 2025.

I know a lot of MSU fans say we should be number one and yes we probably should be. I bet the experts pick Texas or LSU number one though.

[Todd4State]

I'd take him over Stallman. Yeah, Reed has some pop but he's scary in the OF and inconsistent at the plate.

Stallman is having a really good season in the Cape. I think competition will do that. My guess is he will probably platoon at first base most likely.

[Todd4State]

What I am thinking when Parker stated he turned down second round money. His family wants him to attend college from what I have read. I believe him more so than what 34 has said. My point is so what? Let it ride and enjoy the moment instead of being "I told you guys so", Just saying.

Yeah. Everyone says that they are very pro-education. I think if JoJo had slid in the draft he would have been at MSU as well.

And you know- the thing about it is if you are in their situation and trying to maximize money sending one to MLB first and then having the other go to college is the best way to do it. Because the Blue Jays with their draft allotment there is no way they could have given both players life changing money without wiping their whole allotment out.

But now if Jacob becomes a first round pick in three years there is a chance he could also be drafted in the first round and also get life changing money- and maybe that's the Blue Jays three years from now. Who knows?

[Todd4State]

Todd: this is an excellent write up. Really good stuff.

But, one thing I disagree with is this comment:


From last year's team, we return All 5 of the top hitters in Batting Average: Ace, Sully, Frei, Chance & Sanders
We return 4 of the 5 HR leaders: Ace, Sully, Stallman, Frei (lost Hunter)
We return 4 of the 6 RBIs leaders: Ace, Sully, Chance, Stallman (Lost Hunter & Powell)
We return 4 of the 6 SLG% leaders w/100+ abs: Ace, Sully, Stallman, Frei, Chance (lost Hunter & Powell)
We return 5 of the 6 OBP% leaders w/100+ abs: Sully, Ace, Frei, Sanders, Chance (lost Stevens)

That's a large chuck on the 2025 offensive production with tons of SEC experience returning. Next year is gonna be damned fun!

That's a good point. But the thing is some of those players won't be starting for us next year most likely and so some of the starters are going to be lacking in SEC experience. It's feasible that our starting lineup may be all new players from the portal or freshmen...and Ace Reese and Noah. Ace and Noah Sullivan are really the only returners that have a spot locked down from last year.

So, really our SEC experience really depends on how the lineup shakes out. Because the other side of the coin is we could certainly start several returning players as well. Frei, Chance, Stallman, and really even Gatlin Sanders have a chance to play but they'll be facing a lot of competition as well. Also, our entire rotation got drafted again- thanks Justin Parker! That said, we do have some legit talent- most of our better talent happened to be freshmen so yes, we will improve on the mound most likely but still lacking some SEC experience overall.

[The Federalist Engineer]

1. When you've got Teel and Nunnallee as the other 2 OFers, you can afford to play Frei in LF. Could see him platoon with Chance or Valincius because he's elite from the left side. His bat is too good to keep out.
2. I'm willing to bet Bevis is more than a PH. He had some draft talk to him.
3. As long as Sully repeats his 25 numbers, we're good.
4. Being the 6 hole in this lineup ain't no joke. We're stacked.

Look up Sully and Chance as SEC only stats. Also compare first 30 games to second half.

People never forgot that Chance struggled early and never forgot Sully hitting 400 for so long. Sully became 315 down the stretch and Chance almost 400 later. Without Mizzou, Sully only hit 290 down the stretch. Sully also never played the field for MSU or Upstate, only DH.

Sully is a very good player, but 2025 was not a level season, especially down the stretch. That's my other level. He did hit 10 of 15 HR down the stretch, that was good.

[The Federalist Engineer]

Stallman is having a really good season in the Cape. I think competition will do that. My guess is he will probably platoon at first base most likely.

Stallman is hitting 250 at the cape, unless there are stats that I don't see. Or he is mashing and getting robbed.

Duke Stone is looking good by Cape Stats, he is Bullpen like Pitzer but few walks, few hits, looking good by the numbers.

[smootness]

Look up Sully and Chance as SEC only stats. Also compare first 30 games to second half.

People never forgot that Chance struggled early and never forgot Sully hitting 400 for so long. Sully became 315 down the stretch and Chance almost 400 later. Without Mizzou, Sully only hit 290 down the stretch. Sully also never played the field for MSU or Upstate, only DH.

Sully is a very good player, but 2025 was not a level season, especially down the stretch. That's my other level. He did hit 10 of 15 HR down the stretch, that was good.

He hit very well against Texas and OU to start and then Missouri to finish (and also the postseason). So you are really talking about the 7 SEC series in between OU and Missouri. So in those 7 series, his worst stretch of the season (and even removing the midweek games where he performed very well), he hit .263/.372/.488. So he OPSd .860. So even in his worst stretch of the season and being selective to his disadvantage, he was still a good hitter. He OPSd 1.120. He was awesome last year, period.

And you will not find me downing Chance. We need as many good players as we can get and he is one. From SC on, so 29 games, he hit .394/.445/.529, OPSd .974. So very good, and he comes out on top if you compare his best with Sullivan?s worst. But Chance is still heavily dependent on BA, and that is still 150 points short of Sullivan?s full season OPS.

[basedog]

He hit very well against Texas and OU to start and then Missouri to finish (and also the postseason). So you are really talking about the 7 SEC series in between OU and Missouri. So in those 7 series, his worst stretch of the season (and even removing the midweek games where he performed very well), he hit .263/.372/.488. So he OPSd .860. So even in his worst stretch of the season and being selective to his disadvantage, he was still a good hitter. He OPSd 1.120. He was awesome last year, period.

And you will not find me downing Chance. We need as many good players as we can get and he is one. From SC on, so 29 games, he hit .394/.445/.529, OPSd .974. So very good, and he comes out on top if you compare his best with Sullivan?s worst. But Chance is still heavily dependent on BA, and that is still 150 points short of Sullivan?s full season OPS.

Chance is all Maroon and a "Dirt bagger". He recently got married and loves Msu, how can anyone not pull for him, asking for a friend*

[MStateDawg]

Stallman is having a really good season in the Cape. I think competition will do that. My guess is he will probably platoon at first base most likely.

Agreed. Too many people are dismissing Stallman in their 2026 lineup projections. He hit 11 HRs in 117 at bats last year. That was a better HR to AB ratio than Ace had. He did that while playing sparingly at an unfamiliar OF position in the best league in the country. He will content for playing time somewhere.

[MStateDawg]

That's a good point. But the thing is some of those players won't be starting for us next year most likely and so some of the starters are going to be lacking in SEC experience. It's feasible that our starting lineup may be all new players from the portal or freshmen...and Ace Reese and Noah. Ace and Noah Sullivan are really the only returners that have a spot locked down from last year.

So, really our SEC experience really depends on how the lineup shakes out. Because the other side of the coin is we could certainly start several returning players as well. Frei, Chance, Stallman, and really even Gatlin Sanders have a chance to play but they'll be facing a lot of competition as well. Also, our entire rotation got drafted again- thanks Justin Parker! That said, we do have some legit talent- most of our better talent happened to be freshmen so yes, we will improve on the mound most likely but still lacking some SEC experience overall.

That's a fair point, but if 3/5th of our best hitters from 2025 have trouble cracking the lineup in 2026, then that's a damn good sign regardless of their experience level.

[smootness]

I feel confident Reese, Sullivan, Wyers, Milewski, and Teel will be in the lineup somewhere. After that there will be some fierce competition, but I think Stallman, Frei, and Nunnallee are the best bets to also be there. Parker, Valencius, James, Woodson, Bevis, and Chance will all certainly be in that mix.

[KOdawg1]

I'll be surprised if Stallman is on the roster next spring to be honest.

Grandpa Dave Murray accidentally posted an article (again) from his 2002 desktop computer that said Stallman had signed a FA deal but it was quickly deleted.

[Tater]

Look you may not like Lee but stupid he is not. Is he an irritating narcist at times, absolutely! He has good insight most of the time and I actually enjoy most of what he writes it takes all sorts to make the world interesting. I believe this board would be boring without him. I truly believe he gets off watching you all go full retard when he posts what he does. If he didn't get too you, you would just ignore him, but you can't!

"Jokes on you - I was only acting stupid for attention (clicks)" isn't an own on the people reacting.

Dude is just the type of person Dan Mullen tried to weed out of Mississippi State. He is first and foremost a "this is why we can't" dude AND takes weird satisfaction in being right in it. He is far from the only one in this fanbase. But there are too many that would be happier with a 3-9 year when they predicted 3-9 exactly than a 5-7 year when they predicted 8-4.

While being prepared for the worst has its place, always expecting it is a miserable existence.

Prepare for the worst inwardly, hope for the best externally. That's how to approach happiness in life.

[Commercecomet24]

Chance is all Maroon and a "Dirt bagger". He recently got married and loves Msu, how can anyone not pull for him, asking for a friend*

Right on, Base!

[maroonmania]

Stallman is hitting 250 at the cape, unless there are stats that I don't see. Or he is mashing and getting robbed.

Duke Stone is looking good by Cape Stats, he is Bullpen like Pitzer but few walks, few hits, looking good by the numbers.

One thing I've learned over the years is not to put any stock in baseball summer stats. Lots of experimenting going on with pitchers and hitters and wins and losses and overall stats are not really of high importance to what's going on in those leagues.

[basedog]

Right on, Base!

Hope all is well with. U haven't been in ED with all the baseball talk. I know u are excited about BOC and what he has done so far.

[Tater]

Chance is all Maroon and a "Dirt bagger". He recently got married and loves Msu, how can anyone not pull for him, asking for a friend*

I want Chance to succeed. He had a weird slump in non-con. Good problem to have that a player of his caliber is not guaranteed to start.

[smootness]

I want Chance to succeed. He had a weird slump in non-con. Good problem to have that a player of his caliber is not guaranteed to start.

Absolutely. He is either a solid starting OF or a phenomenal bench piece.

[Coach34]

One guy I think you guys are looking past is Ben Davis. He only threw 40 innings as a Soph in juco and struggled the 1st half of 2025. But down the stretch he really looked good- giving up only 3 ER's in his last 17 IP's. He was going to be drafted but pulled out to return for his Sr season- guaranteeing he wont hardly get shit next July when drafted.

Why do you do that? Sounds like Parker has told him he has a great chance to be in the weekend rotation and/or we did a great job with NIL on him.

[bigbub50]

One guy I think you guys are looking past is Ben Davis. He only threw 40 innings as a Soph in juco and struggled the 1st half of 2025. But down the stretch he really looked good- giving up only 3 ER's in his last 17 IP's. He was going to be drafted but pulled out to return for his Sr season- guaranteeing he wont hardly get shit next July when drafted.

Why do you do that? Sounds like Parker has told him he has a great chance to be in the weekend rotation and/or we did a great job with NIL on him.

He could still have leverage if they honor him under the juco eligibility rule.

[Todd4State]

One guy I think you guys are looking past is Ben Davis. He only threw 40 innings as a Soph in juco and struggled the 1st half of 2025. But down the stretch he really looked good- giving up only 3 ER's in his last 17 IP's. He was going to be drafted but pulled out to return for his Sr season- guaranteeing he wont hardly get shit next July when drafted.

Why do you do that? Sounds like Parker has told him he has a great chance to be in the weekend rotation and/or we did a great job with NIL on him.

Davis's dream has been to play at MSU. He literally committed when we offered on the spot.

And before you say that doesn't make sense- LSU always has at least a couple of guys on their team like that every year who are diehard LSU fans. We have enough of a following we can certainly do the same.

Now as far as money he is probably going to end up making at least as much from NIL as he would have from a MLB signing bonus this year so he's really not losing much if any money. NIL has some pros especially for baseball.

[Todd4State]

That's a fair point, but if 3/5th of our best hitters from 2025 have trouble cracking the lineup in 2026, then that's a damn good sign regardless of their experience level.

Exactly! The talent we have added is next level.

[Coach34]

Davis's dream has been to play at MSU. He literally committed when we offered on the spot.

And before you say that doesn't make sense- LSU always has at least a couple of guys on their team like that every year who are diehard LSU fans. We have enough of a following we can certainly do the same.

Now as far as money he is probably going to end up making at least as much from NIL as he would have from a MLB signing bonus this year so he's really not losing much if any money. NIL has some pros especially for baseball.

I don’t disagree as even myself growing up I cared much more about wearing maroon and white than I did an MLB uni. We obviously made it worthwhile in NiL to stay. Just saying keep an eye on him for next Spring. He obviously could add a little more velo to go with that great sinker. Kinda like the jump Ligon made. When Ligon threw strikes and didn’t walk guys to get in trouble- he was pretty damn tough this past season. Ligon added velo and had a little better command than he did as a Jr


Good problem to have for Parker. 6 guys talented enough to be weekend guys in 2026

[Pancho]

I don’t disagree as even myself growing up I cared much more about wearing maroon and white than I did an MLB uni. We obviously made it worthwhile in NiL to stay. Just saying keep an eye on him for next Spring. He obviously could add a little more velo to go with that great sinker. Kinda like the jump Ligon made. When Ligon threw strikes and didn’t walk guys to get in trouble- he was pretty damn tough this past season. Ligon added velo and had a little better command than he did as a Jr


Good problem to have for Parker. 6 guys talented enough to be weekend guys in 2026

Question, Davis basically uses 2 pitches. Does he need a 3rd quality pitch?

[Coach34]

Absolutely. That will likely be his major focus this offseason.

Everybody needs 3 they have confidence in and can throw for strikes. Heat/off speed/bender. You have to be able to change speeds with some movement on it in today's game. And obviously some type of breaking pitch

[Coursesuper]

Absolutely. That will likely be his major focus this offseason.

Everybody needs 3 they have confidence in and can throw for strikes. Heat/off speed/bender. You have to be able to change speeds with some movement on it in today's game. And obviously some type of breaking pitch

With any other pitch to go with 95-97 and that sinker he would be an nasty closer.