Mississippi State Bats Come Alive in 8-3 Win Over Lipscomb

Head coach Brian O'Connor discusses the team's offensive struggles early and Ryan McPherson's gutsy performance on the mound.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Mississippi State's offense was quiet for the first five innings against Lipscomb, but the Bulldogs broke through with a five-run sixth inning to take an 8-3 victory and start the weekend series strong. Head coach Brian O'Connor spoke to the media after the game, praising starting pitcher Ryan McPherson for grinding through when he didn't have his best stuff and the team's depth that allowed them to plug in players dealing with injuries.

Why it matters

This win keeps Mississippi State's momentum going as they look to build on their strong start to the season. O'Connor's comments highlight the team's depth and resilience, which will be crucial as they navigate a long season with inevitable injuries and adversity.

The details

The Bulldogs' bats were largely silent for the first five innings, as Lipscomb's starter did a good job keeping them off balance. But Mississippi State broke through in the sixth inning, sparked by a home run from Drew Wyers. They would go on to score five runs in the frame to take control of the game. Starting pitcher Ryan McPherson didn't have his best stuff, struggling with his fastball command early, but O'Connor praised him for grinding through and giving the team a chance to win. The coach also discussed the team's depth, noting that several key players were dealing with injuries but other guys stepped up to fill in.

  • The game was played on Thursday, March 6, 2026.

The players

Brian O'Connor

The head coach of the Mississippi State baseball team.

Ryan McPherson

The starting pitcher for Mississippi State, who gutted through a tough outing to keep his team in the game.

Drew Wyers

A Mississippi State player who hit a home run to spark the team's five-run sixth inning.

Reed Stallman

A Mississippi State player who was dealing with a foot injury but was able to play in the game.

Gehrig Frei

A Mississippi State player who came off the bench to pinch hit in the game.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Their starter did a nice job. He's throwing four pitches. The changeup was good pitching to our right handers. Candidly, in the first four innings, we didn't take very good passes. Our approach was not what we needed it to be. It just seemed like we were caught between pitches.”

— Brian O'Connor, Head Coach (on3.com)

“Tonight was a big step in the development of Ryan McPherson. You're not going to go out every night and have your best stuff. What your team needs you to do is when you don't have your best stuff is to grind your way to keep your team in the game and that's what he did.”

— Brian O'Connor, Head Coach (on3.com)

“He exudes it. I went down and talked to him after the first inning, and I shared with him that first inning is not how you've carried yourself this year. The body language needs to be right. Tonight is a night that maybe you don't have your best stuff, but we're counting on you to give us the best chance to win. I told him that's what winners do.”

— Brian O'Connor, Head Coach (on3.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This game showcased Mississippi State's depth and resilience, as they were able to overcome early offensive struggles and an off night from their starting pitcher to secure an important win. O'Connor's comments highlight the team's strong leadership and culture, which will serve them well as they navigate the long college baseball season.