Bulldogs Rally Late to Beat Ole Miss in Series Opener

Mississippi State used timely hitting and strong bullpen work to secure the win over their in-state rivals.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 3:37am

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In a game where the wind played a major factor, Mississippi State rallied late to beat Ole Miss 5-4 in the series opener. The Bulldogs fell behind 4-3 in the 7th inning but then scored two runs in the 9th to take the lead for good. Strong pitching from the Mississippi State bullpen, including 2 perfect innings from Tyler Pitzer to close out the game, was key to the victory.

Why it matters

This was an important early-season matchup between two top SEC baseball programs. The win gives Mississippi State an advantage in the series and could be a momentum boost as they look to make a run at the conference title. The game also highlighted the challenges teams can face when playing in windy conditions, and how adjusting their approach at the plate can be the difference.

The details

Mississippi State starter Charlie Foster pitched well, going 4.2 innings and allowing just 2 hits, including a solo home run. The Bulldogs fell behind 4-3 in the 7th inning on a 3-run homer by Ole Miss' Austin Fawley, but then rallied in the 9th. Ryder Woodson and Bryce Chance led the way offensively, with Woodson driving in a run and Chance hitting a double. Tyler Pitzer then came in to throw 2 perfect innings and shut the door on the Rebels.

  • The game was played on Friday, March 28, 2026.
  • Mississippi State scored 2 runs in the 6th inning to take a 3-2 lead.
  • Ole Miss took a 4-3 lead with a 3-run homer in the 7th inning.
  • Mississippi State scored 2 runs in the 9th inning to retake the lead at 5-4.
  • Tyler Pitzer threw 2 perfect innings to close out the game for the Bulldogs.

The players

Charlie Foster

The starting pitcher for Mississippi State, who went 4.2 innings and allowed just 2 hits.

Tyler Pitzer

The relief pitcher for Mississippi State who threw 2 perfect innings to close out the game and earn the win.

Judd Utermark

The Ole Miss third baseman who hit the only home run of the game.

Austin Fawley

The Ole Miss player who hit a 3-run home run in the 7th inning to give the Rebels a 4-3 lead.

Ryder Woodson

The Mississippi State player who had 2 hits, including an RBI single, and scored a run.

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What’s next

The series continues on Saturday afternoon at 1:30 pm, with Mississippi State sending Tomas Valincius to the mound. Ole Miss has not yet announced their starting pitcher.

The takeaway

This back-and-forth game highlighted the importance of adjusting to the playing conditions, as Mississippi State was able to rally late by making the necessary offensive adjustments after struggling early on. The strong bullpen performance, especially from Tyler Pitzer, also proved crucial in securing the victory for the Bulldogs.