Downs Sets Stage For Special Senior Year
February 17, 2025 | Baseball, Joel Coleman
Veteran Diamond Dawg has a monster opening weekend for State.
STARKVILLE – It feels like nothing has come easy for Aaron Downs the last few years. The Mississippi State senior outfielder has had to battle through injuries to become the consistent, productive player that he and the Bulldogs all know he can be.
So, it was fitting on Friday when Downs connected for his first career home run, it didn't exactly get out with ease either.
"I think it hit off the top of the wall and bounced out," Downs said. "Hunter Hines' dad was giving me crap, but it felt good to finally hit one out."
They all count the same. Even so, chances are good there'll be plenty more Downs dingers in 2025 that'll travel much farther. In his fourth year in Maroon and White, it certainly seems Downs is primed to be a big piece for head coach Chris Lemonis' group.
"His past couple of weeks have been really good," Lemonis said of Downs. "He's probably the most loved kid in our program – from his teammates to the people in the community. He's had a good career in some ways, but he hasn't had that big year yet. Sometimes seniors do. No better guy to have it happen to because he's super talented."
Three games are just a blip on the radar screen of a baseball season. However, Downs' year couldn't be off to a much better start.
In State's season-opening sweep over Manhattan, Downs hit .571 (4-for-7) with his homer, a team-high seven RBIs and three runs scored. He also flashed his speed with a pair of stolen bases.
It all had to feel good for Downs following three years of trials and tribulations. Since arriving on campus in 2022, Downs has shown glimpses of his tremendous ability. But ailments and such have hindered the progress.
Last year though, Downs' career began to crescendo. He played in 30 games, started 24 of them and batted .305. If the past weekend was any indication, last season was just an appetizer for what's possible.
"There have been guys here who were good players early on [in their careers] and then finished with a great year," Lemonis said. "I'm hoping that's what [Downs is] about to do."
Really the biggest obstacle for Downs isn't an obstacle at all for State. It's the fact this year's Diamond Dawgs have so many great outfield options and only three spots.
"Lem said after the game that the hardest part right now is that so many guys are playing well, and he can't play them all at once," Downs said. "It seems like top to bottom, everybody can hit, and that's a good problem to have. You can't ask for anything more."
One thing's for sure. Whenever Downs is in the lineup, the Dawgs are going to get everything he's got. He knows no other way.
"He's fought through injuries and adversity, so I'm super proud of him," Lemonis said.
