News Summary
Following the unexpected transfer of Ethan Surowiec, Ole Miss baseball has signed slugging infielder Topher Jones from Pearl River Community College. Jones brings a strong offensive record with a .358 batting average and has received multiple honors. His addition marks a significant move in the team’s roster overhaul, continuing their effort to improve for the upcoming season after a commendable performance last year.
Oxford, Mississippi – Ole Miss baseball has made quick moves to adjust its roster following the unexpected departure of Ethan Surowiec, who entered the NCAA Transfer Portal to join Florida. The Rebels have announced the signing of Topher Jones, a slugging infielder from Pearl River Community College, marking a notable addition to the team’s lineup.
Jones, standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 205 pounds, previously had a commitment to Louisiana Tech before his transfer to Ole Miss. During his standout season at Pearl River, he showcased his offensive skills by hitting .358, achieving a .459 on-base percentage, and a .608 slugging percentage. His impressive performance included setting a single-game school record for RBIs, where he accomplished eight in a game against Itawamba.
Defensively, Jones demonstrated proficiency while playing, although he recorded eight errors in 131 chances throughout the season. His efforts contributed to Pearl River’s impressive run, which ended with the team finishing as the NJCAA World Series Runner-up. Furthermore, he earned several honors, including first-team All-MACCC, All-Region 23, and NJCAA third team All-America recognition, highlighting his ability both at the plate and in the field.
As the ninth transfer player added to the Rebels’ roster since the end of the 2025 season, Jones’s acquisition comes amid a significant roster overhaul for Ole Miss baseball. However, after left-hander Grant Richardson was selected in the sixth round of the MLB Draft by the Athletics, the total number of transfer players on the roster has been reduced to eight.
Last season, Ole Miss achieved a commendable record of 43 wins and earned the opportunity to host an NCAA Regional for the first time since 2021, despite narrowly missing the chance to host a Super Regional for the first time since 2009. The Rebels are also holding onto key players, such as ace pitcher Hunter Elliott and catcher Austin Fawley, as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 season amidst the ongoing roster changes.
With uncertainty looming over several draft prospects entering the 2025 MLB Draft season, Ole Miss baseball is expected to continue enhancing its roster through the transfer portal in the coming months. Coach Mike Clement expressed confidence in Jones’s abilities, noting his defensive versatility and offensive potential, suggesting he will be capable of playing multiple infield positions effectively.
As the offseason progresses, the Rebels will aim to solidify their roster and strengthen their competitiveness, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges ahead in the upcoming season. With ongoing changes and additions, the focus remains on building a team that can continue the momentum of last year’s success.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Ethan Surowiec Transfers from Ole Miss to Florida Gators
Additional Resources
- On3: Ole Miss Baseball Transfer Portal Tracker
- The Rebel Walk: Ole Miss Baseball Offseason Tracker
- Sports Illustrated: Ole Miss Baseball Transfer Portal Haul
- Clarion Ledger: Dom Decker Joins Ole Miss Baseball
- Red Cup Rebellion: Ole Miss Rebels Baseball Rebuilding
- Google Search: Ole Miss baseball transfer portal
Author: STAFF HERE OXFORD WRITER
The OXFORD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOxford.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Oxford, Lafayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Oxford Film Festival, Double Decker Arts Festival, and University of Mississippi football games. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and the University of Mississippi, plus leading businesses in education and retail that power the local economy such as Ole Miss Athletics and Square Books. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
