10 Projected Lineup Changes for the Ole Miss Baseball Roster in 2025

10 Projected Lineup Changes for the Ole Miss Baseball Roster in 2025

The Ole Miss Baseball program is excited to announce its 2025 roster, a dynamic and talented group of young men who are poised to make a run at the College World Series. Led by head coach Mike Bianco, who is entering his 24th season at the helm, the Rebels return a wealth of experience and add several highly touted recruits to the fold. With a strong pitching staff, a deep lineup, and a stellar defense, Ole Miss is primed for a successful 2025 campaign.

One of the strengths of the 2025 Ole Miss roster is its pitching staff. The Rebels return several key arms from last year’s team, including ace John Gaddis, who is considered one of the top pitchers in the country. Gaddis is joined by a talented group of starters and relievers, giving Bianco plenty of options to choose from. The Rebels also have a strong defense, led by shortstop Jacob Gonzalez and catcher Hayden Dunhurst. Gonzalez is a slick-fielding shortstop with a strong arm, while Dunhurst is a highly touted prospect who is expected to make an immediate impact behind the plate.

In addition to its returning players, Ole Miss also welcomes a talented group of recruits to the 2025 roster. The Rebels signed several top prospects, including outfielder Enrique Bradfield and pitcher Derek Curiel. Bradfield is a speedy outfielder with a strong bat, while Curiel is a hard-throwing right-hander with a bright future. The addition of these recruits gives Ole Miss even more depth and talent, and the Rebels are confident that they have the pieces in place to compete for a national championship in 2025.

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Building on a Legacy of Success

The Ole Miss Rebels baseball team has a rich history of success, with multiple College World Series appearances and national championships. As the program looks ahead to 2025 and beyond, the roster is poised to continue this tradition of excellence.

Building on a Solid Foundation

The Rebels’ 2025 roster will be anchored by a strong core of returning players. Several key contributors from the 2023 and 2024 seasons are expected to return, providing a solid foundation for the team’s success.

Position Player Year
Pitcher Jack Dougherty Junior
Catcher Hayden Leatherwood Senior
Shortstop Peyton Chatagnier Sophomore
Outfielder Tim Elko Graduate Student

In addition to the returning players, the Rebels will also benefit from a talented group of incoming recruits. The 2025 class is ranked among the top recruiting classes in the country, and it includes several players who are expected to make an immediate impact.

With a solid foundation of returning players and a talented group of incoming recruits, the Ole Miss Rebels baseball team is well-positioned to continue its legacy of success in 2025 and beyond.

The 2025 Ole Miss Baseball Roster Unveiled

The Ole Miss Rebels are set to begin their 2025 baseball season with a roster that features a mix of returning veterans and talented newcomers. The Rebels are coming off a successful 2024 campaign in which they finished 42-21 and advanced to the NCAA Tournament.

Key Players to Watch

Returning Players

The Rebels return several key players from last year’s team, including All-SEC performers Tim Elko and Gunnar Hoglund. Elko, a first baseman, is a two-time All-American and one of the most feared hitters in college baseball. Hoglund, a right-handed pitcher, is one of the top prospects in the country and is expected to be a key part of the Rebels’ rotation.

Incoming Freshmen

Ole Miss also welcomes a highly touted recruiting class in 2025. The class is headlined by shortstop Enrique Bradfield, who is considered one of the best prospects in the country. Other top recruits include outfielder TJ McCants, pitcher Sam Praytor, and catcher Hayden Dunhurst.

Position Player
Shortstop Enrique Bradfield
Outfielder TJ McCants
Pitcher Sam Praytor
Catcher Hayden Dunhurst

The Rebels are expected to be a contender in the SEC in 2025. They have a veteran-laden team with a talented group of newcomers. The Rebels open their season on February 14 at home against the Maryland Terrapins.

Depth and Versatility Mark This Year’s Squad

The Ole Miss baseball team is poised for another successful season in 2025, with a roster that boasts both depth and versatility. The Rebels return several key players from last year’s team that finished with a 40-20 record and reached the College World Series.

Infield

The infield is anchored by senior shortstop Jacob Gonzalez, who is a two-time All-SEC selection. Gonzalez is known for his excellent defense and has a great arm at shortstop. He can also swing the bat, as he hit .312 with 10 home runs and 50 RBI last season.

Outfield

The outfield is also loaded with talent. Senior TJ McCants, who is an All-SEC performer, is shifting from center field to right field. McCants led the Rebels with 15 home runs last season, and his 30 stolen bases were tied for the most in the SEC. In center field is sophomore Calvin Harris, who was a Freshman All-American last year. Harris is a speedster who can track down anything in the outfield.

Pitching

The pitching staff is led by senior ace Doug Nikhazy, who is a two-time All-American. Nikhazy has a fastball that can reach 100 mph, and he also has a devastating curveball. He is expected to be one of the best pitchers in the country this season.

Player Position Class
Jacob Gonzalez Shortstop Senior
TJ McCants Right Field Senior
Calvin Harris Center Field Sophomore
Doug Nikhazy Pitcher Senior

Transfers and Newcomers Add Impact

The Ole Miss baseball team has added several key transfers and newcomers to its roster for the 2025 season. These additions are expected to make a significant impact on the team’s success.

Infielders

The infield has been bolstered by the addition of two transfers: shortstop Aidan Miller from Florida State and third baseman Jacob Gonzalez from Texas A&M. Miller is a highly touted prospect who is expected to be a key contributor in the middle infield. Gonzalez is a veteran player who provides a strong bat and solid defense at third base.

Outfielders

The outfield has also received a boost with the addition of two newcomers: outfielder Cade Finn from JUCO powerhouse Chipola College and outfielder Bryce Gross from high school powerhouse St. Thomas Aquinas. Finn is a speedy outfielder with a strong arm, while Gross is a power hitter with a good eye at the plate.

Pitchers

The pitching staff has been strengthened by the addition of several transfers and newcomers. The most notable addition is right-handed pitcher Hunter Elliott from LSU. Elliott is a highly regarded prospect who is expected to be a key starter in the rotation. Other notable additions include right-handed pitcher Hunter Hollan from Vanderbilt and left-handed pitcher Josh Hall from Southern Miss.

Player Position Previous School
Aidan Miller Shortstop Florida State
Jacob Gonzalez Third Baseman Texas A&M
Cade Finn Outfielder Chipola College
Bryce Gross Outfielder St. Thomas Aquinas
Hunter Elliott Right-Handed Pitcher LSU
Hunter Hollan Right-Handed Pitcher Vanderbilt
Josh Hall Left-Handed Pitcher Southern Miss

Experienced Leadership Guides the Way

The Ole Miss baseball roster for 2025 boasts a wealth of experience and leadership, with a core group of veteran players ready to guide the team to new heights.

Five Key Seniors

The senior class is particularly strong, featuring five key players who have made significant contributions to the program. Here is a closer look at these experienced leaders:

1. **SP Jack Dougherty:** A hard-throwing right-hander, Dougherty has emerged as one of the top pitchers in the SEC. He has a 3.02 ERA and 9.5 strikeouts per nine innings.

2. **OF Peyton Chatagnier:** A dynamic outfielder, Chatagnier is known for his speed and athleticism. He finished the 2022 season with a .330 batting average and 25 stolen bases.

3. **C Hayden Dunhurst:** An All-SEC catcher, Dunhurst is a true leader behind the plate. He has a strong arm and is a proficient hitter, with a .280 career batting average.

4. **DH Kemp Alderman:** A powerful hitter, Alderman is a threat to go deep at any moment. He has 15 home runs in his career and a .520 slugging percentage.

5. **3B Justin Bench:** A versatile infielder, Bench is known for his defensive prowess. He has a quick glove and a strong arm, and his leadership on and off the field is invaluable.

Pitching Rotation Poised for Excellence

The Rebels’ pitching rotation is shaping up to be one of the best in the SEC in 2025. With a veteran ace at the top of the rotation and a pair of talented sophomores behind him, Ole Miss has the potential to be a dominant force on the mound.

The anchor of the rotation is junior right-hander Derek Diamond. Diamond was one of the most effective pitchers in the SEC in 2023, posting a 3.25 ERA and striking out over 10 batters per nine innings. He is a polished pitcher with a great fastball and a sharp breaking ball.

Behind Diamond, the Rebels have a pair of talented sophomores in left-hander John Gaddis and right-hander Wyatt Short. Gaddis was a mid-week starter for Ole Miss in 2023, but he is expected to move into the weekend rotation in 2025. He has a live fastball and aチェンジアップ that is among the best in the SEC.

Short was a highly-touted recruit who made an immediate impact for the Rebels in 2023. He started 12 games and posted a 3.75 ERA. Short is a strikeout pitcher with a great slider.

In addition to the top three starters, Ole Miss has a number of other talented pitchers who could contribute to the rotation in 2025.

Projected Pitching Rotation

1. Derek Diamond
2. John Gaddis
3. Wyatt Short
4. Grayson Saunier
5. Aidan Miller

Power-Packed Outfield Promises Runs

The Ole Miss baseball roster for 2025 boasts an impressive outfield that could make some noise. These young players have already shown flashes of brilliance and are ready to take the next step next season

8. Jeremy Lancaster

Jeremy Lancaster transferred from Texas A&M and hopes to be the final piece of the Rebels’ outfield. Lancaster is a dynamic player who can do it all on the field. In his first season in Oxford, he was a four-tool player with a strong arm and speed to steal bases. He can play all three outfield positions and will likely start in center field this season before making the move to right field in 2026.

Games Played Batting Average Homeruns Runs Batted In
155 .315 24 113

Lancaster is an all-around player who can make a difference for the Rebels in many ways. He is a good contact hitter and has the ability to hit for power. He also has good speed and can steal bases. Lancaster is a valuable asset to the Ole Miss team, and he is expected to play a big role in their success in 2025.

Seasoned Coaching Staff Fosters Growth

Ole Miss’s coaching staff has helped scouts achieve their goals and develop their talents, fostering a positive environment for squad growth. The staff’s extensive experience and expertise play a significant role in preparing players for the next level.

Veteran Mentorship

Head coach Mike Bianco has guided the Ole Miss baseball program for over two decades, leading them to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and College World Series berths. His knowledge and leadership provide invaluable guidance to aspiring athletes.

Development-Oriented Approach

The Rebel coaching staff places a strong emphasis on player development, both on and off the field. They work closely with athletes to enhance their skills, improve their decision-making, and cultivate their personal growth.

Scouting Success Track Record

Ole Miss’s coaching staff has a proven history of developing players who have gone on to succeed at the professional level. Over the years, numerous Rebels have been drafted into Major League Baseball, showcasing the positive impact of their guidance and training.

Committed to Excellence

The Ole Miss baseball coaching staff is dedicated to fostering a winning culture and pursuing excellence. They continuously strive to improve their methods, adapt to the evolving game, and support the growth of their players.

Player Testimonials

Player Position Comment
Tim Elko First Baseman “The coaching staff has been instrumental in my progress as a player. They have helped me reach my full potential and have always been there for me.”
Kevin Smith Outfielder “I feel incredibly fortunate to have such an experienced and supportive coaching staff. They have played a vital role in shaping me as a player and a person.”

A Roster Primed for a Championship Season

The 2025 Ole Miss baseball roster is a talented and experienced group that is poised to make a run at the College World Series. The Rebels return eight starters from last year’s team, including All-American shortstop Jacob Gonzalez, and have added several key transfers.

Pitching

The Rebels’ pitching staff is led by junior left-hander Hunter Elliott, who is one of the top pitchers in the SEC. Elliott was 10-4 with a 3.12 ERA last season and struck out 115 batters in 92.1 innings pitched. He is joined in the rotation by junior right-hander Derek Diamond and sophomore left-hander Jack Dougherty.

Catching

Junior Hayden Dunhurst is a two-time All-American and one of the best catchers in the country. He is a great defender and has a strong arm, and he also provides a lot of pop in the lineup. Dunhurst hit .325 with 10 home runs and 50 RBIs last season.

Infield

The Rebels’ infield is led by Gonzalez, who is one of the best shortstops in the country. He is a great fielder and has a good bat, and he is also a leader on the team. Other key infielders include second baseman Peyton Chatagnier, third baseman TJ McCants, and first baseman Cael Baker.

Outfield

The Rebels’ outfield is led by senior Kevin Graham, who is a two-time All-SEC selection. He is a great hitter and fielder, and he is also a leader on the team. Other key outfielders include junior John Michael Riley and sophomore Kemp Alderman.

10. Bench

The Rebels’ bench is deep and talented. Some of the key players who will provide depth include:

  • Junior outfielder Ethan Groff
  • Sophomore outfielder Justin Bench
  • Sophomore infielder Peyton Phillips
  • Freshman pitcher Landon Gartman
  • Freshman pitcher Hunter Harding
Class Name Pos
Junior Ethan Groff OF
Sophomore Justing Bench OF
Sophomore Peyton Phillips INF
Freshman Landon Gartman P
Freshman Hunter Harding P

Conclusion

The 2025 Ole Miss baseball roster is a talented and experienced group that is poised to make a run at the College World Series. The Rebels have a good mix of veterans and newcomers, and they have a lot of depth. If they can stay healthy and play to their potential, they should be one of the top teams in the country.

Ole Miss Baseball Roster 2025: A Promising Future

The Ole Miss Rebels baseball team is poised for another successful season in 2025 with a talented and experienced roster. Head coach Mike Bianco has assembled a group of players that includes a strong pitching staff, a solid defense, and a potent offense.

The rotation is led by junior left-hander Hunter Elliott, who is one of the top pitchers in the country. Elliott has a fastball that reaches the mid-90s and a sharp breaking ball. He is joined by sophomore right-hander Derek Diamond, who emerged as a star last season with a 3.20 ERA and 100 strikeouts.

The defense is anchored by senior catcher Hayden Dunhurst, who is a two-time All-American. Dunhurst is known for his strong arm and his ability to call a game. The infield is also solid, with junior shortstop Jacob Gonzalez and sophomore third baseman Peyton Chatagnier leading the way.

The offense is led by senior outfielder Tim Elko, who is one of the best hitters in the SEC. Elko is a power hitter who led the Rebels with 19 home runs last season. He is joined by junior outfielder Kevin Graham, who is a speedy leadoff hitter who can also steal bases.

The Ole Miss Rebels baseball team is a legitimate contender for the College World Series in 2025. With a talented roster and an experienced coaching staff, the Rebels have all the ingredients for a successful season.

People Also Ask About Ole Miss Baseball Roster 2025

Who is the head coach of the Ole Miss baseball team?

Mike Bianco

Who is the top pitcher on the Ole Miss baseball team?

Hunter Elliott

Who is the best hitter on the Ole Miss baseball team?

Tim Elko