Aggie baseball raring to go with Kirby at the helm

Beginning in February, first-year head coach Mike Kirby and his NMSU Aggies are set to embark on a challenging 53-game slate, facing opponents from two Power Five conferences, including the Pac-12 and SEC, as well as clashes with Mountain West foes New Mexico and San Diego State.
 
"It is with great enthusiasm that I embrace this new role as head coach for New Mexico State University," Kirby said. "I would like to first thank Chancellor Arvizu, President Floros and Director of Athletics Mario Moccia for entrusting me with the Aggie baseball program. I'm excited about the opportunity and ready to embark on this journey and look forward to helping continue and build upon the success that has been paved by Coach Green and his staff."

The Aggies play 12 of their first 13 games at Presley Askew Field, giving fans an early opportunity to watch the squad open the season at home. NMSU begins the campaign against Texas Southern for the second year in a row, with the home opener scheduled for 3 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14.

NMSU travels to Arizona State for an early-season midweek clash before making its first extended road trip of the season in March. The Aggies play three games at nationally ranked Texas A&M and three games at San Diego State before concluding the road swing with two tilts at Abilene Christian.

After hosting Sacramento State for three games, NMSU hits the road for another extended road trip. The Aggies play one game at Arizona on Tuesday, March 24, before traveling to Northern Colorado and Air Force.

Conference play begins the first week of April in Phoenix to face Western Athletic Conference foe Grand Canyon. The Aggies also host WAC opponents Utah Valley, Chicago State and Seattle and travel to CSU Bakersfield, UTRGV and California Baptist.

Three midweek games, including one home contest, are scheduled against in-state rival New Mexico. The Aggies and Lobos first meet at 6:05 p.m. Tuesday, April 28, in Albuquerque before the series moves to Las Cruces one week later for a 6 p.m. clash on Tuesday, May 5.

The third and final game between the Battle of I-25 rivals is set for 6:05 p.m. Tuesday, May 12, in Albuquerque.

The WAC Tournament takes place May 20-24 at Hohokam Stadium in Mesa, Ariz.

Kirby comes to the City of Crosses with a championship pedigree, having one won seven conference titles – including the 1995 College World Series Championship at his alma mater, Cal State Fullerton. He's also seen 104 players selected in the MLB Draft during his coaching career – including 27 who have gone on to play in the major leagues.