Judd Utermark Matches Elko, Closes in on Ole Miss Home Run Record
OXFORD, Miss. — The numbers tell one story. The history behind them tells an even better one.
On a night where Ole Miss rolled past Murray State, 19-2, senior third baseman Judd Utermark etched his name deeper into Rebel baseball lore — and into a moment that felt bigger than just a box score.
With two home runs in Tuesday’s win, Utermark pushed his career total to 46, tying Ole Miss legend Tim Elko for second on the program’s all-time list. Only Kyle Gordon (48) now stands ahead.
.@JuddUtermark tied Tim Elko for the 2nd most HR’s by a Rebel with 4⃣6⃣ That’s his 2nd HR of the night‼️ pic.twitter.com/2jllA1m21H
— Ole Miss Baseball (@OleMissBSB) April 22, 2026
But for Utermark, the milestone carries a meaning that goes beyond the record books.
Because long before he was chasing Elko’s mark, he was welcomed by him.
“He is awesome,” Utermark said after the game.
“A little known story: he was my host whenever I was a recruit here, and I actually am (now) in the same locker as him.”
Judd Utermark on Tim Elko
That connection — from recruit to record chaser — adds a layer to Utermark’s rise that feels almost scripted. He’s not just climbing the same leaderboard. He’s walking a path that Elko helped shape.
“And all the things he has done — not only for Ole Miss baseball, but for Oxford — he’s a really special guy. So it means a lot.”
Utermark on Elko
From Arrival to Anchor
Utermark’s journey to this point has been built on consistency, power, and an ability to deliver in big moments.
Since arriving in Oxford, the third baseman has developed into one of the most reliable bats in the Rebels’ lineup — a player capable of changing a game with a single swing. His power has been evident from early in his career, but it’s the way he’s rounded out his game that has elevated him into elite company.
By his junior season, Utermark has become more than just a run producer. He’s a cornerstone — a middle-of-the-order presence who opposing pitchers have to account for every time he steps in the box.
And now, statistically, he’s standing shoulder-to-shoulder with one of the most iconic players in program history.
More Than Just Home Runs
For head coach Mike Bianco, the comparison between Utermark and Elko goes far beyond their shared spot on the home run list.
“Two really good players,” Bianco said.
“Great leaders. Two guys that do it the right way and you hope that your kids grow up and be like.”
Mike Bianco on Utermark and Elko
That’s the common thread — production paired with presence.
Elko’s legacy at Ole Miss was built as much on leadership and toughness as it was on his power at the plate. Utermark, in his own way, has begun to mirror that same impact.
A Full-Circle Moment
Tuesday’s performance — a 3-for-4 night with two home runs and four RBIs — was another example of Utermark doing what he’s done all season: delivering.
But tying Elko makes it different. It connects the past and present in a way that doesn’t happen often. From being hosted on a recruiting visit… to using the same locker… to now sharing a place in the record book. It’s not just a milestone. It’s a full-circle moment.
And with the record now within reach, the next chapter is waiting.
Next Up
Utermark and the Rebels return to SEC play this weekend as they host No. 5 Georgia for a three-game series at Swayze Field — with history now just two swings away.
Adam Brown
Adam Brown returns to The Rebel Walk after being on the Ole Miss beat as a Sports Editor for over 13 years. He is a lifelong Oxford resident. Brown graduated from the University of Mississippi with a bachelor’s degree in journalism.
Prior to The Rebel Walk, Brown was the sports editor of HottyToddy.com covering every Ole Miss sport and local high school sports in the community.
