Mississippi State Baseball Transfer Exodus

• Spalitta, a highly touted catcher from Louisiana, flashed potential in limited at-bats (.280 career average), including a standout performance against Southern Miss. But despite praise from former coach Chris Lemonis, consistent playing time never came.

They join RHP Gavin Black, SS Dylan Cupp, C Ross Highfill, LHP Wes Pritchard, RHP Mikhai Grant, OF/LHP Nolan Stevens, OF Michael O’Brien, OF Landis Davila, and LHP Luke Dotson.

They are all part of the growing list of Bulldogs seeking new homes before the portal closes July 1.

With Brian O’Connor taking over the program, it’s no surprise that change is underway. The veteran head coach has held individual player meetings since arriving in Starkville, and the program appears to be recalibrating with a focus on roster fit, development, and long-term culture building.

But for fans, it stings. These aren’t just names on a spreadsheet. They’re young men who signed on to be part of one of college baseball’s most passionate fanbases, and whose stories, for one reason or another, didn’t unfold as hoped in Starkville.

Mississippi State is expected to be active in the portal themselves, looking to balance experience with upside. But in the ever-evolving world of college athletics, roster churn is the new normal, and the only certainty is more change.

Still, there’s one thing that hasn’t changed: the heart of the Bulldog faithful. As the transfer window continues to turn, fans will watch, wait, and hope that this period of transition paves the way for a stronger, more competitive Mississippi State team in 2026.