Mississippi State outlasted Ole Miss in an unexpected pitching duel during Tuesday night’s Governor’s Cup at Trustmark Park in Pearl.
The Bulldogs struck first blood in the top of the first inning after a double by Hunter Hines scored a run, giving MSU a 1-0 lead over the Rebels.
In the top of the sixth inning, Bulldogs left fielder Dakota Jordan reached first base after an errant throw by Ole Miss catcher Calvin Harris. Jordan proceeded to steal second base, advance to third on a wild back pick attempt, and score on an RBI double hit by Luke Hancock to give MSU a 2-0 lead.
Following a scoreless top of the seventh inning, the Rebels battled back, putting one run on the board courtesy of a Garrett Wood groundout that scored Anthony Calarco.
Nevertheless, 10 strikeouts and only four hits allowed by Mississippi State’s pitching staff would wrap this year’s annual Governor’s Cup in maroon and white as the Bulldogs got revenge on their in-state rival who won last year’s battle.
Freshman RHP Evan Siary was credited with the win after pitching two innings and allowing zero runs off of one hit. Ole Miss freshman RHP Grayson Saunier was tacked with the loss.
Next up for the Diamond Dogs is a three-game series at No. 24 Tennessee beginning Thursday at 6 p.m. CT. Ole Miss will remain in the Magnolia State and host Georgia for a weekend series at Swayze Field starting Friday at 6:30 p.m. CT.
