News Summary
Mississippi State’s standout third baseman, Ace Reese, has earned a finalist position for the prestigious Ferriss Trophy, which honors the top collegiate baseball player in Mississippi. Celebrated for his stellar performance this season, Reese leads his team with impressive stats including 63 hits and 16 home runs. The award presentation will take place at the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, marking a significant moment for Reese and the Diamond Dawgs fans. The program continues to evolve with the recent departure of head coach Chris Lemonis, adding more excitement to the current baseball season.
Exciting Times in Starkville: Ace Reese Emerges as Ferriss Trophy Finalist
Starkville is buzzing with excitement as Mississippi State’s third baseman, Ace Reese, has nabbed a finalist spot for the coveted 2025 Ferriss Trophy. This trophy is awarded annually to the top collegiate baseball player in the state, a title many dream of but few achieve. The presentation ceremony will take place on May 19 at the magnificent Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum in Jackson, ensuring an unforgettable occasion for our Diamond Dawgs’ fans.
A Stellar Season for Ace Reese
This season has been nothing short of spectacular for Reese, who has made quite an impression in his inaugural year with the Diamond Dawgs. He is currently leading the team with a remarkable 63 hits, including 13 doubles, one triple, and an astonishing 16 home runs to his name. Not only that, but he also boasts a dazzling 57 RBIs and a phenomenal .692 slugging percentage.
Reese’s talent shines through with a solid .346 batting average, making him second on the team. Baseball enthusiasts will be thrilled to learn that he has recorded 20 multi-hit games this season, alongside 18 multi-RBIs and four multi-home run games. At present, he’s on a fantastic 15-game hitting streak, ranking fourth in the Southeastern Conference for home runs and total bases, with an impressive 126.
The Ferriss Trophy Legacy
The Ferriss Trophy is not just any award. It holds weight and pride for Mississippi State baseball, with the program having garnered the trophy an impressive nine times in its two-decade history. Other notable past winners include Tanner Allen (2021), Jake Mangum (2016, 2019), and Hunter Renfroe (2013), each leaving an indelible mark on Mississippi baseball. In fact, Mangum stands out as the only two-time recipient of the award, further establishing the elite status of those who have worn the maroon and white.
Searching for a New Head Coach
Speculation regarding potential head coach candidates has been swirling around, especially with names like Wes Johnson from Georgia popping up. However, he has swiftly dismissed any rumors linking him to the Mississippi State job and is focusing on continuing his successful tenure at Georgia, a program he led to a super regional in 2024.
A Rich Tradition and Promising Future
Mississippi State is well-known for its rich baseball history, including the unforgettable 2021 national championship. The university’s baseball facilities, particularly the renowned Dudy Noble Field, have been dubbed some of the finest in college baseball, attracting attention from top coaching prospects nationwide.
As the current season progresses, the Diamond Dawgs hold a record of 29-19 with a 10-14 SEC record. Up next, they are set to face No. 22 Ole Miss for a thrilling three-game series starting on May 9. It promises to be an exhilarating showdown, and fans are encouraged to rally behind their team as they aim to finish the season on a high note.
With the combination of Ace Reese’s outstanding performance and the ongoing developments in the coaching arena, Mississippi State baseball is at a pivotal moment. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for an exciting season ahead!
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Additional Resources
- Clarion Ledger: Mississippi State Baseball Coaching Search
- Wikipedia: Mississippi State Bulldogs Baseball
- 247 Sports: Chris Lemonis Letter to MSU Fans
- Google Search: Mississippi State Baseball Coaching Search
- Dawg Nation: Wes Johnson Addresses MSU Job Opening
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Baseball
Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
