STARKVILLE — Mississippi State baseball's quest to return to the postseason begins Friday when the Bulldogs open a three-game series against Air Force at Dudy Noble Field.

After winning the national championship in 2021, MSU has failed to make the postseason − including the SEC tournament − in back-to-back years. For coach Chris Lemonis, the return to the standard starts with pitching.

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MSU has had to SEC's worst ERA the last two seasons. The Bulldogs will look to open 2024 on the right note, with Nate Dohm, Khal Stephen and Jurrangelo Cijntje as the opening weekend starters.

After making an NCAA regional in 2022, Air Force failed to make the NCAA tournament last year. A big reason for the drop-off was the loss of pitcher Paul Skenes, who transferred to LSU after the 2022 season. Skenes helped guide the Tigers to a national title before becoming the top pick in the 2023 MLB Draft.

What time, channel is the Mississippi State vs. Air Force baseball game on?

Friday: 4 p.m., SEC Network+

Saturday: 4 p.m., SEC Network+

Sunday: 4 p.m., SEC Network+

Weekend probable pitchers, final scores (Mississippi State vs. Air Force)

Friday: Mississippi State won 8-4.

Saturday: Air force won 3-2.

Sunday: Mississippi State won 10-2.

NCAA FINANCIAL REPORT: Mississippi State athletics 2023 fiscal year

Mississippi State baseball score vs. Air Force: Live updates

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Mississippi State baseball vs Air Force score updates, how to watch