Overview

• O’Connor agreed on June 2 to take charge of Mississippi State after the Bulldogs’ season concluded with a 5-2 NCAA Tournament loss to Florida State.
• He won 917 games at Virginia, earned three national and five ACC coach of the year awards and was inducted into the American Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame in 2024.
• Mississippi State fired Chris Lemonis on April 28 and named Justin Parker interim coach, who guided the Bulldogs to wins in 11 of their final 15 games and a Tallahassee Regional final.
• Athletic director Zac Selmon said that O’Connor’s championship experience and leadership align with Mississippi State’s tradition and commitment to winning at the highest level.
• O’Connor said he was drawn by the program’s passionate fan base and the nationally renowned atmosphere at Dudy Noble Field.