A Revitalized Roster Aims for a Strong 2027 Season
Mississippi State enters the 2027 campaign with three weekend starters—Tomas Valincius, Ryan McPherson and Duke Stone—who were all ranked among the top 30 MLB draft prospects last year. In fact, the Bulldogs are the only SEC program to bring back all three of those weekend starters, giving them a rare continuity heading into the new season.
The departure of six starting position players after the draft forced the coaching staff to overhaul the lineup, prompting a wave of additions. Thirteen transfers have been welcomed, including eleven high‑school signees, to fill the gaps left by the departing veterans.
Among the newcomers, Landon Stump arrives from UCLA, where he posted a 4.21 ERA over 42 career starts, and will battle for a rotation spot. Nick Robert, a Miami transfer with a 9.82 ERA in limited action, also joins the mix. Young arms such as Jack Bauer, Maddox Miller, Jack Gleason, Parker Rhodes and William Kirk are slated to return to the mix, adding depth to the staff.
Position players Brady Christman, a Georgia Southern transfer batting .384 with 12 home runs, and Josiah Overbeek, an Army transfer who hit .314 with 17 homers, are expected to contend for starting roles. Will Craddock, a South Carolina transfer, adds another experienced option, while freshman All‑American outfielder Jacob Parker is expected to make an immediate impact.
Coaching changes bring fresh perspective to the program. Chris Gordon, hired as director of pitching development and scouting, brings a résumé that includes stints at South Carolina, Texas, Duke and East Tennessee State. He replaces Joe Savino and is expected to shape the staff’s approach to player growth.
Head coach Brian O'Connor plans to convene the team in August, hold a comprehensive meeting, and begin workouts that will be evaluated over the next two to three months. The staff is also focused on retaining key talent like Ryder Woodson for at least two more seasons, aiming to build a competitive environment that can translate into on‑field success.