With the 2026 college baseball season just one day away, head coach Mike Bianco has unveiled the pitching rotation and starting lineup that will kick off the Ole Miss Rebels’ quest for another deep postseason run.
The announcement came Tuesday at media day, setting the stage for a highly anticipated opening series at Swayze Field against the Nevada Wolf Pack.
Weekend Rotation Announced
Bianco confirmed the Rebels’ Opening Weekend pitching rotation, giving fans a clear look at how the staff will be deployed in the three-game set:
Friday (Opening Day) – Hunter Elliott takes the ball to get the season started. The veteran left-hander was one of the SEC’s top arms last year and carries ace status into 2026.
Saturday – Cade Townsend gets the nod, moving into a larger role for the weekend after an impactful 2025.
Sunday – Wil Libbert will close out the series on the mound, rounding out a weekend rotation that blends experience and depth.
Bianco also highlighted several bullpen arms poised to play key roles throughout the season, including Hudson Calhoun, Taylor Rabe, Walker Hooks, Landon Waters, Owen Hancock, Owen Kelly, Landon Koenig, Marko Sipila, Patrick Collopy, Grayson Gibson, and Noah Allen.
2026 Opening Day Starting Lineup
Fans also got a look at the players Bianco will send out to hit and field on Opening Day. The lineup features a mix of experience and exciting new faces:
Catcher (C) Austin Fawley
First Base (1B) Will Furniss
Second Base (2B)Dom Decker
Shortstop (SS) Brayden Randle
Third Base (3B) Judd Utermark
Corner Outfield Tristan Bissetta
Center Field (CF) Hayden Federico
Outfield Daniel Pacella
Designated Hitter (DH) Collin Reuter
This lineup represents a balance of offensive prowess and defensive versatility, with several players capable of contributing both on the bases and in the field.
Bianco expressed enthusiasm for both the starting rotation and the lineup, emphasizing the importance of depth and flexibility as the Rebels navigate a challenging schedule. With a mix of seasoned position players and pitchers alongside rising contributors, this Rebels team looks prepared to compete from the first pitch onward.
Ole Miss will open its season Friday at 4 p.m. CT against Nevada at Swayze Field. All three games of the weekend series will be broadcast on SEC Network+, offering fans a chance to follow every pitch as the Rebels open their 2026 campaign at home.
Whether it’s Hunter Elliott firing strikes on Friday or the bats in Fawley, Furniss and company setting the tone at the plate, Mississippi faithful will be watching closely as Bianco’s club begins its run for postseason glory.
Hotty Toddy, baseball season is officially here.