Chone James' versatility makes him a tough out in Bulldog lineup

The Mississippi State utility player can play multiple positions and is making the most of his opportunities.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Chone James has been a versatile player for the Mississippi State Bulldogs, able to play catcher, second base, outfield, and designated hitter. After transferring from Virginia, James has continued to show his ability to contribute in a variety of ways, including hitting a home run in his first game at Dudy Noble Field. Despite not starting the first two games, James has made the most of his chances, batting .400 with four hits and five RBIs through the first five games.

Why it matters

James' versatility and willingness to play wherever the team needs him makes him a valuable asset for the Bulldogs. In a deep lineup where not everyone can play every day, James' ability to step up in different roles demonstrates the team's overall depth and competitiveness.

The details

James came to Virginia as the No. 2 catcher in South Carolina, but coach Brian O'Connor recognized his positional versatility and utilized him at second base, in the outfield, and as a designated hitter. After transferring to Mississippi State, James has continued to show his ability to play multiple positions, working with the second basemen in the fall before increasing his work with the catchers this spring. Despite not starting the first two games, James has made an immediate impact, delivering a two-run single against Hofstra and hitting his first career home run against Troy.

  • James did not play in the first two games of the season.
  • James came off the bench to deliver a two-run single against Hofstra last weekend.
  • On Tuesday night against Troy, James hit his first career home run at Dudy Noble Field.

The players

Chone James

A utility player for the Mississippi State Bulldogs who can play catcher, second base, outfield, and designated hitter.

Brian O'Connor

The head coach of the Mississippi State Bulldogs who recognized James' positional versatility and utilized him in a variety of roles at Virginia.

Kevin Milewski

A catcher for the Mississippi State Bulldogs who has a larger frame compared to James.

Vytas Valincius

A Mississippi State player who, like James, did not start the first two games of the season but has since gone 4-for-4.

Drew Wyers

Another Mississippi State player who, like James and Valincius, did not start the first two games of the season but has since gone 4-for-4.

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What they’re saying

“I kind of just stay ready. Whatever the team needs that day, I'm down to do. I practice it all, so when I get the chance somewhere else, I feel prepared. Wherever Oak puts me in the lineup that day, I'm going to try and go out there and help the team as best as possible.”

— Chone James (on3.com)

“Hitting a homer here is like no other. I got down 0-2 quick, and was trying to put a ball in play and get that run in. It just happened to be a great pitch and great swing.”

— Chone James (on3.com)

“That emphasizes what this team is about. We have a deep lineup so not everyone can play every day. These guys that are on the bench, if they're not playing on the weekend they can come in any given day and go 4-for-4 or 3-for-3. That's a testament to what this position group is all about.”

— Chone James (on3.com)

What’s next

The ongoing battle at catcher position for the Bulldogs will continue to be monitored as James competes for playing time behind the plate.

The takeaway

Chone James' versatility and willingness to contribute in any role makes him a valuable asset for the Mississippi State Bulldogs, who have a deep lineup and competitive position battles throughout the roster.