Mississippi State Reveals Baseball Pitching Rotation

Bulldogs set to open season against Hofstra at Dudy Noble Field

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Mississippi State baseball has announced its starting pitching rotation for the season-opening series against Hofstra. Ryan McPherson will start on opening day on February 13, followed by Charlie Sheppard on February 14 and Landon Gartman on February 15.

Why it matters

As the defending SEC Tournament champions, Mississippi State is looking to build momentum heading into the new season. The starting pitching rotation is a key part of the Bulldogs' strategy as they aim to return to the College World Series.

The details

Head coach Chris Lemonis has tabbed Ryan McPherson, Charlie Sheppard, and Landon Gartman as the starting pitchers for the three-game series against Hofstra. McPherson will take the mound on opening day, Sheppard will start the second game, and Gartman will round out the rotation in the series finale.

  • The series against Hofstra will begin on February 13 at 4 p.m. CT.
  • The second game is scheduled for February 14.
  • The third and final game of the series will be played on February 15.

The players

Ryan McPherson

Mississippi State's opening day starting pitcher.

Charlie Sheppard

Mississippi State's starting pitcher for the second game of the Hofstra series.

Landon Gartman

Mississippi State's starting pitcher for the third game of the Hofstra series.

Chris Lemonis

Head coach of the Mississippi State baseball team.

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What’s next

The Bulldogs will look to get off to a strong start in the season-opening series against Hofstra as they aim to build momentum for the rest of the year.

The takeaway

Mississippi State's starting pitching rotation will be a key factor in determining the team's success as they begin their quest to return to the College World Series.