Mississippi State pitching coach Taryne Mowatt-McKinney has been named one of 25 finalists for D1Softball's 2026 Assistant Coach of the Year award. Her leadership contributed significantly to the Bulldogs' first Women's College World Series appearance this spring. Under her guidance, the pitching staff set multiple program records, showcasing their competitive prowess and the high standard she upholds as a coach.

By the Numbers
  • Bulldogs set new records with 523 strikeouts and allowed just 280 hits this season.
  • Three pitchers achieved top-10 batting average against marks in program history.
State of Play
  • Mowatt-McKinney's pitchers have been recognized with 10 national and conference honors this year.
  • Three pitchers recorded no-hitters this spring, a remarkable feat highlighting their talent under her coaching.
What's Next

The D1Softball National Assistant Coach of the Year will be announced on August 31, with Mowatt-McKinney in strong contention for the award based on her record this season.

Bottom Line

Mowatt-McKinney's ability to develop pitchers and lead the team to historic achievements positions her among the elite coaching talents in collegiate softball, making her recognition long overdue.