It is 50 degrees in North Mississippi, which means it is time for College Baseball season. While the season starts this weekend, Rebel fans must wait a little longer before we can bundle up and file our way into Swayze field. It is this time of year that breathes optimism as you imagine what this team and season could be. However, the sour taste from the last two iterations of Ole Miss baseball makes it hard to be positive. I think we should be positive.
It feels good to be back ⚾️ pic.twitter.com/1GKjxxfBmm
— Ole Miss Baseball (@OleMissBSB) February 14, 2025
Over the past several months I have previewed the entire roster, and one thing stands out substantially, and that is depth. While this team lacks proven star power, even though I think several freshmen could one day reach that level, and several upperclassmen might take that jump, this team has no shortage of options. The catcher position, one of the weakest spots from last season, seems to have three capable options. The bullpen has been fully reloaded and retooled; it appears that there are 15-16 position players that the staff feels comfortable playing.
The Rebs take the field this afternoon in one of the premier showcases in College Baseball for the opening weekend. The Shriners Children’s College Showcase in Arlington, VA. They will play the #21 Arizona Wildcats, #19 Texas Longhorns, and #15 Clemson Tigers. Giving the Rebels three marquee matchups
How to watch
Unfortunately for college baseball, the sport has grown considerably in recent years. It means we will have premium matchups behind a massive paywall. We will use a subpar streaming service this weekend. The Shriners Children's Showcase will be streaming one of their games on FloSports.
Luckily, there is a free option for Rebel fans this weekend as all games will be broadcasted on the Ole Miss Radio Network, where fans can listen in to the voice of the Rebs David Kellum on the call.
Ole Miss vs Arizona
The Rebels and the Wildcats will meet on the diamond at Globe Life Field this afternoon at 3 PM Central time. The pitching matchup will be LHP Hunter Elliott vs RHP Collin McKinney. Hunter Elliott is a preseason All-SEC pitcher and is making his return after missing pretty much two years. McKinney is a sophomore transfer from Baylor, who in 14 starts during his freshman season, posted a 6.70 ERA. We are still awaiting the starting lineup from Coach B, but he did give us some hints this week during Media Day.
ESPN has lines out for this game and for all the games of the Shriners. What a time for College Ball.
Money Line:
Arizona -115
Ole Miss -120
Total:
Over 10.5, -120
Under 10.5. -115
Run Line:
Arizona -1.5, +130
Ole Miss +1.5, -180
Stayed tuned this weekend for recaps of all three games at the Shriners Showcase. Let's get some good wins. Hotty Toddy.