Alyssa Faircloth pitched a career-high 11 strikeouts to lift No. 17 Mississippi State over No. 20 LSU on Friday night. The Bulldogs won 5-3 in Starkville, snapping LSU’s four-game winning streak, according to school officials.
Paige Ernstes powered Mississippi State’s offense with a three-run homer in the third inning. The rally started with Nadia Barbary doubling with two outs, and Kiarra Sells drew a walk before Ernstes’ home run. Gretta Grassel added a pinch-hit single in the sixth that scored a run, and Xiane Romero scored on LSU errors during the play.
Faircloth, who now has seven double-digit strikeout games in 2026, allowed LSU to score once in the third on a double that scored a runner from first. The Tigers added a run in the seventh on a wild pitch with two outs. Leila Ammon entered to get her first save of the year, walking one batter but holding LSU scoreless the rest of the game.
Mississippi State’s success with two outs continues, as their last 14 runs this season have come in those situations, school officials said. The Bulldogs improved to 35-14 overall and 7-12 in SEC play. LSU fell to 32-15 and 9-10 in conference action.
Coach Samantha Ricketts praised Faircloth’s effort and the team’s resilience. She also highlighted Ernstes’ timely home run and Grassel’s effort, noting their contributions helped extend the lead and secure the victory.
The series continues Saturday at 2 p.m. CT, with senior day ceremonies scheduled prior to the game. The matchup will be streamed on SEC Network+.
