Mississippi State Softball Dominates with Pitching and Offense

The Bulldogs stay unbeaten with two run-rule wins, powered by strong pitching performances and a red-hot lineup

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Mississippi State softball continued its undefeated start to the season with two run-rule wins on Friday, showcasing dominant pitching from Alyssa Faircloth and Peja Goold along with a relentless offensive attack led by Morgan Stiles and the rest of the Bulldogs' lineup. The team scored early and often, applying constant pressure to overwhelm their opponents Murray State and Rutgers.

Why it matters

Mississippi State's impressive start to the season has established them as an early contender in college softball, with their combination of elite pitching and a deep, powerful lineup making them a formidable opponent for any team. The Bulldogs' ability to win convincingly in multiple ways demonstrates their versatility and potential to make a deep postseason run.

The details

In the first game against Murray State, the Bulldogs scored five runs in the first inning without ever looking rushed, with Paige Ernstes and freshman Tatum Silva driving in runs. Alyssa Faircloth was dominant in the circle, striking out nine batters and only allowing two hits. Against Rutgers, Morgan Stiles continued her torrid hitting streak, going 4-for-4, while Kiarra Sells hit her second home run of the season. Peja Goold was equally impressive, tossing a one-hit shutout with another complete-game performance.

  • On February 14, 2026, Mississippi State softball won two run-rule games against Murray State and Rutgers.

The players

Samantha Ricketts

The head coach of the Mississippi State softball team.

Morgan Stiles

A standout player for Mississippi State, currently on an 11-game hitting streak and leading the team's offensive attack.

Alyssa Faircloth

A dominant pitcher for Mississippi State, striking out nine batters and only allowing two hits in the win over Murray State.

Peja Goold

Another ace pitcher for Mississippi State, tossing a one-hit shutout with a complete-game performance against Rutgers.

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What they’re saying

“I really liked how we came out and scored first in both games. I think that's something that's always the focus for us, trying to find a way to get on the board first and give our pitchers a little bit of a cushion.”

— Samantha Ricketts, Head Coach

What’s next

Mississippi State will face Rutgers again on Saturday, followed by a matchup against North Texas. The Bulldogs will look to continue their dominant start to the season and establish themselves as a top contender in college softball.

The takeaway

Mississippi State softball has emerged as an early powerhouse, showcasing a well-rounded team with elite pitching and a relentless offense. Their ability to win convincingly in multiple ways has set them up for a potentially deep postseason run, as they continue to build confidence and chemistry with each dominant performance.