Shake-Up in Starkville: Multiple Mississippi State Baseball Staff Members Depart in Stunning Turn
STARKVILLE, Miss. — In a shocking development that’s sending ripples through the SEC and beyond, multiple members of the Mississippi State baseball coaching staff have officially departed the program, sources confirmed late Friday night. The news comes on the heels of a rollercoaster season that ended in disappointment for the Bulldogs, leaving fans with more questions than answers heading into the offseason.
While the names of all the departing staff members have yet to be publicly confirmed, insiders close to the program revealed that both hitting coach Alan Jennings and pitching coach Marco Rivera have tendered their resignations. Additionally, director of player development Jalen “JT” Thompson is reportedly exploring opportunities at the professional level.
The departures, while unexpected, are believed to be tied to internal frustrations stemming from underperformance, philosophical differences with head coach Brett Holliday, and increased pressure from boosters demanding a return to Omaha-caliber baseball.
“This wasn’t the way anyone wanted the season to end,” one program source told the Starkville Gazette. “But sometimes, when results don’t match the vision, changes are inevitable.”
Mississippi State finished the season 31-25, missing out on a regional berth for the second consecutive year. The once-proud powerhouse, which hoisted the national championship trophy just a few seasons ago, has been mired in inconsistency, particularly on the mound. The pitching staff’s ERA ballooned to 5.47, the worst mark in the SEC. And despite returning several key bats, the offense failed to deliver in clutch moments throughout the year.
Fans have voiced their frustration loudly on social media and at Dudy Noble Field, with many calling for a full rebuild. Still, the departure of multiple staff members in one swoop feels like a dramatic pivot point in the trajectory of the program.
“This is either the storm before the calm or the beginning of something bigger,” said college baseball analyst Reid Donnelly. “You don’t often see this kind of staff turnover unless something major is happening behind closed doors.”
Head coach Holliday, who remains in his post for now, released a brief statement late Friday: “We thank our departing staff members for their contributions to Mississippi State baseball. They are tremendous professionals, and we wish them nothing but success moving forward. Our focus now turns to building the future of this program and ensuring we return to the level of excellence our fans deserve.”
Speculation is already swirling around possible replacements, including some familiar names with Bulldog ties. A source within the athletic department hinted that a national search is underway, but priority will be placed on coaches who understand “the Mississippi State way.”
With the transfer portal wide open and 2025 recruiting in full swing, the timing of this shake-up could have major implications. As the dust settles, one thing is clear: change is no longer coming to Starkville — it has already arrived.
