Mississippi State University has officially parted ways with head baseball coach Chris Lemonis, as announced by Athletics Director Zac Selmon on April 28, 2025. This decision comes amid a disappointing 2025 campaign, with the Bulldogs currently holding a 25-19 overall record and a 7-14 mark in conference play, putting them on track to miss the postseason for the second time in three years.
Lemonis, who took over the program in the summer of 2018, completed seven seasons at the helm, amassing a 232-135 overall record. His tenure was highlighted by significant achievements, including three NCAA Tournament appearances in 2019, 2021, and 2024, two trips to the College World Series in 2019 and 2021, and the program's first-ever national championship in 2021. However, the past few seasons have not lived up to the high standards set during his initial years, with the Bulldogs recording a disappointing 42-69 in conference play since their national title.
Selmon expressed the need for a change in leadership, stating, "A change in leadership is what’s best for the future of Mississippi State Baseball. We have not consistently met the standard of success that our university, fans, and student-athletes expect and deserve. I want to thank Coach Lemonis for his work and the time he gave to our program, including a national championship in 2021. We appreciate his efforts and wish him and his family all the best moving forward."
In a team meeting following the announcement, Selmon conveyed his confidence in the remaining student-athletes, encouraging them to compete with pride and intensity for the rest of the season. He emphasized the rich tradition of Mississippi State baseball, noting, "Mississippi State is the premier job in college baseball. The tradition, the facilities, the NIL offerings, and the fan base are all second to none. Dudy Noble Field is the best environment in the sport, period."
Selmon further highlighted the program's history of success, stating, "This program is built for success. Our history proves it, and our future demands it. We are one of only four programs in NCAA history to reach the College World Series in six consecutive decades. With 40 NCAA Tournament appearances, 12 trips to Omaha, 11 SEC regular season titles, and a national championship, our program has always been a national contender. That is the bar. We’re going to find a leader who will embrace that, elevate our program and compete for championships."
Justin Parker, who was brought on as pitching coach before the 2024 season, will step in as the interim head coach for the remainder of the 2025 season. The university has initiated a national search for Lemonis' permanent replacement.
As the Bulldogs look to rebound from this setback, they are set to continue their season against Kentucky this weekend, coinciding with the exciting Super Bulldog Weekend festivities in Starkville. The upcoming games will be crucial for the team as they aim to finish the season strong amid the recent coaching changes.
Mississippi State baseball has a storied past, and while the recent years have posed challenges, the program's commitment to excellence remains unwavering. The Bulldogs have a passionate fan base and a legacy that they hope to build upon with new leadership. As the search for the next head coach begins, all eyes will be on Mississippi State to see how they navigate this transition and work towards returning to their winning ways.
In the wake of Lemonis' departure, the Mississippi State community is rallying behind the team, eager to see how they will respond in the coming weeks. With their next matchup against Kentucky looming, the Bulldogs have the opportunity to showcase their resilience and determination on the diamond.
