HOLLY SPRINGS, Miss. — Rust College baseball opens the 2026 season with renewed focus and a determination to climb the HBCU Athletic Conference standings under head coach John Bates.
The Bearcats were picked eighth in the HBCUAC preseason poll, a projection the program is using as fuel after last year’s first‑round tournament exit. Bates said the group returns with purpose and a stronger competitive edge.
“We know what the conference expects from us,” Bates said. “But our team has been working with purpose. We’ve got leaders returning, we’ve got competitive firepower, and we’re excited about what we can become this season.”
Shortstop Kyrent Cole, named to the Preseason All‑HBCUAC First Team, anchors the lineup as one of the league’s most reliable defenders. Power hitter Christopher Brock also returns as a key offensive threat expected to drive Rust’s production.
With veteran leadership and a motivated roster, the Bearcats aim to establish early momentum and contend throughout conference play.
Bob Bakken provides content for DeSoto County News and its social media channels. He is an award-winning broadcaster, along with being a reporter and photographer, and has done sports media relations work with junior and minor league hockey teams. Along with his reports on this website, you will find this veteran media member providing sports updates on Rebel 95.3 FM Radio.
