Mississippi State Crushes Vanderbilt in 24-Run Slugfest

Bulldogs' offense explodes for 17 runs on 18 hits, including 4 home runs, in SEC series finale

Mar. 22, 2026 at 9:18pm

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In a high-scoring affair, No. 6 Mississippi State's offense erupted for 17 runs on 18 hits, including 4 home runs, to defeat Vanderbilt 17-7 in the SEC series finale. The Bulldogs jumped out to an early lead, chasing Vanderbilt's starting pitcher without recording an out, and never looked back, adding runs in nearly every inning. Vanderbilt tried to keep pace, hitting 4 home runs of their own, but couldn't match Mississippi State's firepower.

Why it matters

This game showcased the offensive prowess of both teams, with a combined 24 runs scored and 8 home runs hit. While Mississippi State's pitching struggled at times, their bats carried them to victory in this SEC showdown. The win keeps the Bulldogs in the hunt for a top seed in the NCAA Tournament, while Vanderbilt will look to rebound after this high-scoring defeat.

The details

Mississippi State's offense exploded early, scoring 5 runs in the 1st inning, including a 3-run home run, to chase Vanderbilt's starting pitcher without recording an out. The Bulldogs continued to pour it on, adding 6 more runs over the next 2 innings. Vanderbilt tried to keep pace, hitting 4 home runs of their own, but couldn't match Mississippi State's 18-hit, 17-run outburst. In total, the two teams combined for 24 runs and 8 home runs in the slugfest.

  • The game was played on Sunday, March 22, 2026.

The players

Mississippi State

The No. 6 ranked college baseball team that won the high-scoring affair against Vanderbilt.

Vanderbilt

The opposing team that was unable to keep up with Mississippi State's offensive onslaught, despite hitting 4 home runs of their own.

Duke Stone

The Mississippi State starting pitcher who got the win, despite giving up 6 runs (3 earned) and 4 home runs.

Tyler Baird

The Vanderbilt starting pitcher who was chased from the game without recording an out in the 1st inning.

Bryce Chance

The Mississippi State player who ended the game with an RBI single in the 7th inning.

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What’s next

Mississippi State will look to continue their offensive onslaught when they host No. 12 Southern Miss on Tuesday, March 24th at 6pm on SECN+.

The takeaway

This game showcased the high-powered offenses of both Mississippi State and Vanderbilt, with the Bulldogs ultimately prevailing in a 24-run slugfest. Mississippi State's ability to consistently score runs will be a key factor as they look to secure a top seed in the NCAA Tournament.