odd couple

Notre Dame. Mississippi Valley State. Not exactly a baseball rivalry. Well, maybe not yet. The Fighting Irish, who hosted the Delta Devils for a couple of games — and won both — two years ago, come south next weekend to return the favor with a three-game series. They play Feb. 19 in Itta Bena, then Feb. 20 and 21 in Greenville. Could be interesting. Doug Shanks has pumped life into Valley’s program. The Devils are a SWAC contender every year now; they won’t be embarrassed against the Irish. Notre Dame baseball isn’t on the level of Irish football or basketball, but there’s some tradition there. The Irish have made 21 NCAA Tournament appearances, though the last was in 2006. They went 36-23 in 2009. Next week’s series is worth keeping an eye on. Maybe a rivalry will begin to brew. Just hope it doesn’t snow.