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The Student Newspaper of Mississippi State University

The Reflector

The Student Newspaper of Mississippi State University

The Reflector

“Reps and confidence:” Championship team talks mindset as new season approaches

Riley+Self+and+Tanner+Leggett+stand+at+first+during+the+2021+season+game+against+Kentucky.
Adam Sullivan | The Reflector

Riley Self and Tanner Leggett stand at first during the 2021 season game against Kentucky.

With Mississippi State University’s Bulldog baseball coming off their national championship win into a new season, the team took some time to reflect on their previous season and envision their upcoming one during a media availability this past Tuesday.

“Reps and confidence, night and day,” said Brad Cumbest about his offseason changes between last season and the upcoming season. The now senior outfielder was a key player in the Bulldog championship win with his three putouts against Vanderbilt in the final game.

As Landon Sims reflected on the Bulldog win, he has decided not to let his baseball mentality change for this upcoming season.

“At the end of the day, it’s the game of baseball. I still throw the ball over the plate 60 feet and 6 inches,” Sims said.

The right-handed gunslinger struck out 15 players in the national championship series this past season.

“We’re a really hungry team this year,” junior catcher Logan Tanner added.

Tanner was a heavy hitter last season in the world series at the plate with six RBIs, two doubles and a home run. The Lucedale, Mississippi, native has already received several preseason honors, and will most certainly be a key factor in MSU’s 2022 plans.

Head coach Chris Lemonis reflected on what it’s been like to get back to the daily grind after the national championship victory.

“When you’re all said and done, you’re back to the same old job,” Lemonis said. “The game is the game — the pureness of the game of baseball — and coming out and teaching the game is why we’re out here.”

“We’re gunning for them. Target’s on their back, not ours. We’re just going to attack,” Cumbest said.

The Bulldogs are not letting a championship make them comfortable; they’re ready for whatever this fresh season throws their way. 

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“Reps and confidence:” Championship team talks mindset as new season approaches