Mississippi State Pitcher Ryan McPherson Sidelined for Ole Miss Rivalry Series

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Mississippi State baseball's starting pitcher Ryan McPherson will miss the upcoming rivalry series against Ole Miss due to a mild forearm strain. McPherson, who has a 2.45 ERA and 3-0 record this season, exited his last start against Vanderbilt on March 20 and was later diagnosed with the injury after an MRI. Coach Brian O'Connor said McPherson is "incredibly highly doubtful" to pitch against the Rebels, though his UCL is "absolutely pristine" and a timetable for his return has not been determined.

Why it matters

This is a significant blow for Mississippi State as they prepare to face their in-state rival Ole Miss. McPherson has been a key part of the Bulldogs' pitching rotation this season, and his absence will force the team to adjust their lineup and strategy for the crucial SEC series.

The details

McPherson, a sophomore right-hander, exited his last start against Vanderbilt on March 20 and was later diagnosed with a mild forearm strain after undergoing an MRI on March 22. Coach Brian O'Connor said on March 24 that McPherson is "incredibly highly doubtful" to pitch against Ole Miss, though his UCL is "absolutely pristine" and a timetable for his return has not been determined. Charlie Foster will start in McPherson's place for the Bulldogs.

• McPherson exited his start against Vanderbilt on March 20.
• McPherson underwent an MRI on March 22 before his diagnosis was announced on March 24.
• The Mississippi State vs Ole Miss series begins on March 27 (6:30 p.m., SEC Network+) at Swayze Field.

What they’re saying

What’s next

A timetable has not been determined for when McPherson could return to the Bulldogs' pitching rotation.