Now that the euphoria of delivering the first national championship in Mississippi State athletics history has cooled just a bit, and the business of chasing another title has begun, how do the Bulldogs balance the celebration of June’s glory with the reality that every team in college baseball is about to start 2022 with the same 0-0 record? That was the challenge facing MSU coach Chris Lemonis heading into this fall — a challenge any coach would love to take on.

And there’s every reason to believe the 2022 Bulldogs are capable of attacking the 2022 season and making another run at the ultimate glory. Of course Mississippi State will miss departed stalwarts Tanner Allen and Rowdey Jordan in the lineup, plus CWS Most Outstanding Player Will Bednar and weekend starter Christian MacLeod. But there is so much talent and experience back in Starkville, a blend of proven star power and exciting young players on the rise...