Mississippi State Sweeps Saturday Doubleheader

Bulldogs extend perfect start to 9-0 with dominant performances against Rutgers and North Texas.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Mississippi State's softball team continued its undefeated start to the season, sweeping a Saturday doubleheader against Rutgers and North Texas. The Bulldogs showcased their depth and talent, with contributions from multiple players including home runs, strikeouts, and strong pitching performances. Mississippi State cruised to two wins, extending its perfect record to 9-0 on the year.

Why it matters

Mississippi State's hot start is an impressive feat, as the team has demonstrated its ability to win in a variety of ways against different opponents. The Bulldogs' depth and well-rounded production suggest they could be a force to be reckoned with as the season progresses, potentially making a deep postseason run.

The details

In the first game against Rutgers, Mississippi State rallied late with a two-run homer from pinch-hitter Abby Grace Richardson and a three-run shot from defensive replacement Kalani Sells to secure the win. Against North Texas, the Bulldogs responded to an early deficit with a solo homer from Kiarra Sells to tie the game, then pulled away behind strong performances from Kinley Keller, Nadia Barbary, and pitcher Laila Ammon, who threw a complete game with 10 strikeouts. Reliever Peja Goold also continued her dominant stretch, picking up two wins on the day.

  • Mississippi State extended its perfect start to 9-0 on the season with the Saturday doubleheader sweep.
  • The Bulldogs will wrap up The Snowman tournament on Sunday with another game against North Texas.

The players

Abby Grace Richardson

A Mississippi State player who hit a crucial two-run homer as a pinch-hitter to break a tie in the first game against Rutgers.

Kalani Sells

A Mississippi State player who hit a three-run homer as a defensive replacement in the first game against Rutgers, recording her first career hit.

Kiarra Sells

A Mississippi State player who hit a solo homer to tie the game against North Texas in the third inning.

Kinley Keller

A Mississippi State player who had a double, scored two runs, and showcased impressive baserunning in the win over North Texas.

Nadia Barbary

A Mississippi State player who hit a double to drive in a run in the win over North Texas, moving into the top 10 in program history in that category.

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What’s next

Mississippi State will wrap up The Snowman tournament on Sunday with another game against North Texas.

The takeaway

Mississippi State's dominant performances in the Saturday doubleheader showcase the team's depth, talent, and potential to make a deep postseason run. The Bulldogs' ability to win in a variety of ways, with contributions from multiple players, suggests they are building something sustainable and dangerous as the season progresses.