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Mississippi HS Team Preview: Mooreville Troopers

February 3, 2025
Prep Baseball Mississippi Staff

The 2025 Mississippi high school baseball season is quickly approaching and, as usual, excitement is abound throughout the state. Players and coaches have been working in preparation for the upcoming season and, as is the case each year, there are some very talented players and teams across Mississippi.

Teams across the state have goals and aspirations to finish their seasons at Pearl’s Trustmark Park, in the State Tournament finals at the end of May, but there is plenty of work to be done before that becomes reality. We hope to familiarize our readers with many of the teams across the state as we preview individual teams across Mississippi. We will take you right up to first pitch this season with these team previews, eventually releasing our Preseason Power 25 rankings that’ll carry us into the opening week of action.

Please keep checking back throughout the season as we will be your one-stop shop for everything related to high school baseball across the state. Each week we will be releasing our Players of the Week and updating the Power 25 rankings.

Our 2025 preseason coverage continues today.

High School: Mooreville High School
Head Coach: Derek Thompson
MHSAA Classification: MHSAA 3A
District Number: Division 4
2024 Record (Playoff Finish): 26-9 (Eliminated Fourth Round)

 

ROSTER PREVIEW

+ No. Returning Positional Starters: 5
+ No. Returning Pitchers: 2
+ Key Returners:

More Names to Know

2025s:

  • MIF Will Carnathan (2025)

2026s:

  • 1B/DH Ethan Cates (2026)

2025 OUTLOOK

+ The Mooreville Troopers are gearing up for a promising 2025 season, returning 5 positional starters and 2 pitchers from a 2024 squad that finished 26-9 and made it to the 3A State Playoffs, only to be knocked out in the 4th round. Head Coach Derek Thompson is optimistic about the team's chances this year, with a solid infield defense being a focal point for success. As the Troopers prepare to build on their playoff experience, they’ll rely on a mix of seasoned veterans and talented young players to push for a deeper postseason run.

Brody Thompson (SS/RHP) – A senior leader, Brody Thompson will play a crucial role both on the mound and in the field. As the team’s shortstop, he’ll provide a steady presence in the infield while also contributing as a right-handed pitcher. His leadership and versatility will be pivotal for Mooreville's success. Cam Harrison (RHP) – Another senior, Harrison is expected to be a key asset in the pitching rotation. Known for his ability to throw strikes and keep hitters off balance, Harrison will be looking to have a strong senior campaign to cap off his career. Cooper Goff (3B) – A junior with a lot of promise, Goff will anchor the Troopers' infield at third base. After a solid 2024 season, he’s poised to take on more responsibility this year and be a consistent force at the plate and in the field. Wyatt McDaniels (C/RHP/OF) – A dynamic sophomore who’s already had his share of success at the Junior Future Gamer level, McDaniels brings both versatility and raw talent. As a catcher, pitcher, and outfielder, his all-around skill set will be invaluable to the Troopers. Will Carnathan (MI) – As a senior middle infielder, Carnathan will be looked to for stability in the infield and leadership on the diamond. His ability to produce in clutch situations will be a key factor in Mooreville's quest for a successful season. Ethan Cates (1B/DH) – A junior who plays both first base and serves as a designated hitter, Cates will provide an added offensive threat in the middle of the lineup. His bat will be critical to driving in runs and providing protection for the team’s power hitters.

The pitching staff, led by Thompson and Harrison, will also be an area to monitor. If they can stay healthy and deliver consistent performances, Mooreville’s chances in the postseason will increase dramatically. McDaniels’ ability to contribute in multiple roles (catcher, pitcher, and outfield) will also be something to watch closely, as his versatility allows Coach Thompson to be flexible with lineup decisions.

Offensively, the Troopers’ success will depend on how well their middle-of-the-order hitters—like Cates and Goff—can produce. With a mix of speed, power, and solid contact hitters, they have the potential to be a high-scoring team.

With a blend of experienced seniors and promising underclassmen, Mooreville is well-positioned to make another run at the 3A State Playoffs in 2025. If the pitching staff performs as expected and the offense can find consistency, the Troopers will be a tough matchup for any opponent in their region. A strong start to the season is key, and they’ll be looking to kick things off on February 11th against Saltillo.

February 11th vs. Saltillo: The Troopers’ regular season opener will set the tone for what should be an exciting season. Keep an eye on this early matchup as Mooreville looks to establish their rhythm heading into the rest of the campaign.

Find more information on Mooreville’s 2025 season below:

+ Follow them on X: @baseballtrooper
+ Find more 2025 team previews on our MHSAA Season Preview page

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