Mississippi State’s 2027 baseball roster is taking shape following the conclusion of the MLB Draft, as several key signees and current players navigate professional contract decisions. While standout infielder Ace Reese is expected to join the Seattle Mariners, other prospects and current Bulldogs face a July 27 deadline to decide between professional baseball and continuing their collegiate careers in Starkville.
Draft Impact on the 2026 Bulldog Roster
The 2026 Mississippi State roster saw four players selected in the draft, with varying implications for their collegiate eligibility. Ace Reese, a key contributor who led the team in home runs and RBI, was selected 20th overall by the Seattle Mariners. According to MLB.com, his signing bonus is valued at $3.82 million, making his departure from the program likely.
Other roster departures include Ben Davis, selected 104th overall by the Colorado Rockies with a $755,000 bonus, and Bryce Chance, who was picked by the Toronto Blue Jays at No. 312. Chance, a long-time fixture in the program, holds a pick value of $191,000. Aidan Teel remains the primary uncertainty for the 2026 squad. Drafted in the 11th round by the Minnesota Twins, Teel retains college eligibility and has not yet signaled his intent to sign or return to Mississippi State.
Did you know?
Players selected in the MLB Draft have until July 27 to reach a contract agreement with their respective professional organizations. If a player does not sign by this date, they retain their collegiate eligibility.
2027 Recruiting Class and Pro Interest
The Bulldogs’ incoming talent pool faced significant scrutiny during the draft, with four 2027 signees selected by professional clubs. Rocco Maniscalco, the son of former MSU shortstop Matt Maniscalco, was the highest-selected signee. Taken 50th overall by the St. Louis Cardinals, Maniscalco carries a signing bonus of $1.98 million. Ranked as the top player in Alabama by Perfect Game, his decision will be a major indicator of the 2027 class’s strength.
Other signees drafted include:
- Will Brick: Selected 131st overall by the Toronto Blue Jays with a $581,100 bonus. Brick was the highest-rated MSU signee in the MLB top-250 prospects.
- Martin Shelar: Picked 274th overall by the Boston Red Sox with a $205,400 bonus.
- Denton Lord: A right-handed pitcher from Florida selected 515th overall by the San Diego Padres. Lord has already publicly committed to joining the Bulldogs in Starkville.
Strategic Implications for Mississippi State Baseball
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for drafted players to sign?
All players selected in the MLB Draft have until July 27 to sign with their professional organizations. Failure to sign by this date allows them to retain their college eligibility.
Which 2026 Bulldog has the most uncertain future?
Aidan Teel is currently the only player from the 2026 roster with remaining eligibility who has not yet made a definitive decision regarding his professional future following his 11th-round selection.
Have any 2027 signees confirmed they are coming to Mississippi State?
Yes, right-handed pitcher Denton Lord has announced his intention to play for the Bulldogs, despite being selected by the San Diego Padres in the 17th round.
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