Mississippi State’s baseball squad is set to face Georgia in the Athens Super Regional, a series that could determine a berth in the College World Series. At the heart of the Bulldogs’ lineup are twin brothers whose complementary skills have made them indispensable this season.
A Shared Journey to the Diamond
Tomas and Vytas Valincius grew up in Lockport, Illinois, before attending Baylor School in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Their mother relocated to Starkville to be near them during the demanding baseball schedule, underscoring the family’s commitment to the brothers’ collegiate careers.
Tomas, a sophomore left‑hander, opens the rotation with a 2.99 earned run average, an 11‑2 record and 130 strikeouts — statistics that place him second in the SEC. His delivery and poise on the mound have drawn attention from scouts, though he remains draft‑eligible only for 2027.
Vytas, a graduate‑student outfielder, brings a .373 batting average, six home runs, 29 RBIs and 24 runs scored across 27 starts. While he is not projected as a top draft prospect, his consistency at the plate provides the Bulldogs with a reliable middle‑order threat.
Both brothers share a distinctive pronunciation of their surname — Tomas says Vuh‑LINK‑cuss, while Vytas says Vuh‑lin‑SEE‑us — an idiosyncrasy that has become a light‑hearted trademark among teammates and fans alike.
The upcoming three‑game series against Georgia will test their abilities under pressure. A victory would not only crown Mississippi State as regional champions but also propel the team into the national tournament, where the ultimate goal remains a World Series appearance.