The start of Mississippi State baseball's 2026 season and the official start of the Brian O'Connor-era is just days away, and while expectations are always high for the Diamond Dawgs, you could argue the hype has reached never-before-seen levels. With one of the sports' very best coaches now leading the program and a roster that is genuinely as loaded as any in the nation, Bulldog baseball is entering 2026 in true "Omaha or bust" mode, and even that may be putting it lightly.
State is a consensus Top 6 team in the preseason rankings, with Baseball America having them No. 3 in the nation. This team is one of the favorites to win the national championship. The buzz goes beyond the excitement for a new coach and hope for the future. They're set up to win big now.
And Bulldog fans will love to hear that their new skipper is facing those lofty expectations head on.
Brian O'Connor says Mississippi State baseball is running towards expecations
When asked about discussing outside hype and expectations with his team during his preseason media session, Diamond Dawg HC Brian O'Connor made it clear his team isn't going to shy away from the praise they're receiving going into the season...
"What I talk to them about is as a man, you make a choice. You either run to (expectations), or you run away from it. And I believe that this group of young men are excited about running to it."Brian O'Connor
Rather than pretend none of the talk is out there out of fear that it could be a distraction, MSU is embracing the expectations put on them. O'Connor says he's discussed the high preseason rankings with his team, telling them "if that's what we are, we will earn that out on the field." He wants his team to put in the work and effort necessary to prove those expectations right.
"You can't run away from expectations...It comes down to going out there and playing tough, great, fundamental baseball."Brian O'Connor
It's a refreshing mindset to hear from a coach and program. They understand this team has high expectations, and their motivation is to justify that. Bulldog baseball begins the season Friday, February 13 at Dudy Noble Field against Hofstra.