The race for the Ferriss Trophy
The Ferriss Trophy, presented each year to the most outstanding collegiate baseball player in Mississippi, has become a benchmark of excellence for the state’s program.
This season, two standout athletes from Mississippi State have earned the distinction of being named finalists, drawing attention for their dominant performances on the diamond.
Ace Reese enters the final stretch of the season batting .335 and leading the SEC with 21 doubles, while also ranking among the conference leaders in total bases, RBIs, runs, home runs and slugging percentage.
On the mound, Tomas Valincius boasts an 8‑2 record, a 2.52 earned run average and 105 strikeouts in 75 innings, positioning him as one of the most effective pitchers in the league.
A ceremony in Jackson
The winner will be revealed on May 18 at 11:30 a.m. during a special ceremony at the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum in Jackson, where the trophy’s storied history will be celebrated.
The event will also honor the nine previous Mississippi State recipients, including notable alumni such as Thomas Berkery, Ed Easley, Chris Stratton, Hunter Renfroe, Jake Mangum, Brent Rooker, Tanner Allen and Dakota Jordan.
Jake Mangum stands alone as the only two‑time winner of the award, underscoring the program’s rich tradition of producing top talent.
With the announcement just days away, the excitement among teammates, coaches and fans alike is palpable, as the state looks forward to seeing which of the finalists will add their name to the distinguished list.