Mississippi State softball's 2025 season came to a close over the weekend. The Bulldogs fell in the finals of the Lubbock Regional on Sunday, being eliminated with a 9-6 loss at the hands of host Texas Tech. State ends the year with a record of 39-19.
Bulldog bats had admirable showing against NiJaree Canady
The talk of the regional was how MSU would fare against the nation's ERA leader in NiJaree Canady. Though their first attempt against her on Saturday didn't go particularly well, the Bulldog lineup genuinely impressed on Sunday. State recorded eight hits and six runs against Canady (though three runs were unearned). They found ways to get on base and did more than you could have asked for in this game.
Unfortunately, MSU couldn't slow down Texas Tech's own lineup. The Red Raiders scored nine runs on 14 hits, striking out just once. Raelin Chaffin was fantastic for State this season, but she clearly had run out of steam with her third 100+ pitch outing of the weekend. With Tech's talented group of bats and the extra rest, they had a clear edge, and that was too much to overcome.
Mississippi State program continues to build under Samantha Ricketts
Despite the season not resulting in a regional host and a deep postseason run, the 2025 campaign was still a step forward for the Mississippi State softball program. Their 39 wins was the most under Samantha Ricketts, and they did that against the No. 16 strength of schedule. Posting a winning record in SEC play, something that had not happened for the program since 2001, was a huge milestone. These were clear signs of growth for the Bulldogs, and that should only continue.
While the Bulldogs will lose some of their very best and most impactful players off the 2025 team in Sierra Sacco, Raelin Chaffin, and Jessie Blaine, much of the lineup remains intact and there are some highly talented young players waiting to step-in. They also look poised to sign a highly-ranked 2026 class, as Ricketts has begun stacking strong recruiting classes. With a few impact portal additions, you could be looking at another strong team. Growth in the SEC is difficult, but State keeps inching towards a breakthrough that will come sooner than later.