EAST LANSING, MI — The Michigan State Spartans baseball team has clinched its spot in the Big Ten tournament, cementing their playoff aspirations with a sensational performance in their final regular-season game.
In an exhilarating showdown on Saturday at McLane Stadium, Randy Seymour’s walk-off single in the ninth inning led the Spartans to a thrilling 11-10 victory over the Minnesota Golden Gophers. This critical win, paired with UCLA’s triumph over Northwestern, secured Michigan State as the No. 12 seed in the Big Ten tournament, scheduled for May 20-25 at Charles Schwab Field in Omaha, Nebraska.
Facing a 10-9 deficit in the final inning, redshirt-junior infielder Jacob Anderson came through with a crucial bases-loaded single, allowing junior Noah Bright to score and tie the game. Seymour’s subsequent hit drove Parker Picot home, igniting jubilation among fans and teammates as they celebrated the come-from-behind victory.
Following this triumph, Michigan State concludes its regular season with a 28-25 overall record, including a 13-17 Big Ten record. This marks only their second appearance in the conference tournament in three years and the 16th in the program’s history, nine of which have occurred under the leadership of head coach Jake Boss Jr.
“Every victory feels amazing,” Boss remarked with pride. “I am incredibly proud of our team. There were points during the game when things could have spiraled out of control, but they demonstrated their composure and resilience. After a tough couple of days, they really showed what they could do when it mattered. Now, we’re aiming for Omaha.”
The Spartans’ first matchup in pool play is against the No. 8 seed Nebraska at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, followed by a clash with the formidable No. 1 seed Oregon—both teams that dominated the regular season—on Thursday at the same time.
For this year’s tournament, the format features a pool play system, dividing the participating 12 teams into four groups of three. The top teams from each pool will advance to the single-elimination semifinals on May 24, culminating in the championship battle on May 25.
Fans can catch every moment of the tournament live on the Big Ten Network, with streaming available through the FOX Sports App, making sure that no thrilling play or pivotal moment goes unseen.
Saturday’s match was also a poignant conclusion to MSU’s Senior Celebration Weekend. After the game, all 11 seniors participated in the cherished tradition of kissing the Spartan statue in center field, commemorating their legacy with group photographs and a celebration of their impactful contributions to the team.
“What an outstanding group of players,” Boss reflected. “It’s unique to see so many new faces integrate so well into our program in just a year. We emphasize the importance of leaving the program in a better place than when you joined, and these seniors have accomplished just that.”
“Our program is poised for future success. We’re definitely looking forward to more victories in the upcoming games. Despite some obstacles this season, I have full confidence in what lies ahead for this team.”
— MSU Athletic Communications
