Ole Miss Baseball Opens in Arlington: How to Watch, Start Time, and Key Matchups
Ole Miss is set to kick off its 2025 season at the Shriner’s Children’s College Showdown, marking the second time the Rebels have participated in the prestigious event. The last time they competed in 2021, they dominated, sweeping TCU, Texas Tech, and Texas.
This year, the Rebels face another challenging start with three ranked opponents lined up for the weekend. First up, they take on No. 21 Arizona on Friday at 3 p.m. CT, where veteran left-hander Hunter Elliott will square off against Wildcat righty Collin McKinney.
The action continues Saturday at 7 p.m. CT, as No. 19 Texas faces Ole Miss right-hander Riley Maddox, while Longhorns’ left-hander Luke Harrison takes the mound. The Rebels wrap up their tournament play on Sunday at 2:30 p.m. CT against No. 15 Clemson, with Mason Nichols pitching against Tigers’ LHP Justin LeGuernic.
Ole Miss Weekend Rotation: Mississippi Natives Take the Mound
Ole Miss is putting its faith in homegrown talent this season, with Elliott, Maddox, and Nichols—three Mississippi natives—leading the rotation. These pitchers are among the Top 150 starting pitchers ranked by D1Baseball:
- Hunter Elliott – No. 26
- Riley Maddox – No. 62
- Mason Nichols – No. 117
Elliott, making his first start in nearly two seasons after Tommy John surgery, was named preseason All-SEC, becoming the first Rebel pitcher to earn that honor since Parker Caracci in 2019.
How to Watch and Listen
TV & Online Streaming: FloCollege
- Play-by-Play: Brant Freeman
- Analyst: Ty Harrington
Radio: Ole Miss Radio Network
- Play-by-Play: Gary Darby
- Analyst: Brad Henderson
Key Transfers Strengthening the Rebels
Ole Miss has bolstered its roster with a strong transfer class, featuring outfielders Mitchell Sanford and Isaac Humphrey, both ranked among D1Baseball’s Top 100 Outfielders.
- Mitchell Sanford (New Orleans) – 2024 Southland Hitter of the Year, hit .381 last season.
- Isaac Humphrey (Louisville) – Hit .311 with 14 doubles, 10 home runs, and 40 RBIs in 2024.
Additionally, pitcher Will McCausland (Saint Joseph’s) and Ryan Moerman (Illinois) add depth, while Alex Canney, a three-time Division II All-American from Tampa, strengthens the bullpen.
Baseball America ranked Ole Miss’ incoming class as the No. 10 transfer haul in the nation, setting high expectations for the Rebels this season.
Looking Ahead: Home Opener vs. Arkansas State
After the Arlington showdown, Ole Miss will host Arkansas State on Tuesday, February 18, at Swayze Field, marking their highly anticipated home opener.
With a strong returning core and key transfers, the Rebels are ready to make a statement in 2025. Will they rise to the challenge? Stay tuned as the season unfolds!
