LIVINGSTON, Ala. - West Alabama baseball (8-7, 4-2 GSC) is set to hit the road for a non-conference matchup against Spring Hill College on Tuesday, February 25, at 5 p.m.
The Tigers look to build on their recent performances as they continue to fine-tune their play ahead of more Gulf South Conference action.
Blake Vineyard leads the Tigers' offense with a .378 batting average, three home runs, and 13 RBIs.
Eli Burwash has also consistently contributed, hitting .345 with five doubles and 10 RBIs.
Joe Watkins has also been a catalyst at the plate, posting a .300 average while leading the team with 17 runs scored.
The Tigers' lineup has showcased depth, with multiple players contributing, including
Nick Wilson (.265 AVG, 10 RBIs) and
Jake Goolsby (.220 AVG, three home runs). The team is collectively hitting .256 and has slugged 14 home runs over their first 15 games.
West Alabama's pitching staff is led by
Maxwell Schumacher, who has been dominant with a 1.06 ERA over 17 innings pitched.
Judah Buckner has been equally effective out of the bullpen, allowing no runs in 5.1 innings with nine strikeouts.
Jack Hoppenjans (1.86 ERA) has also provided key innings, securing two saves.
The Tigers' pitching staff holds a collective 5.63 ERA, striking out 100 batters over 123 innings. The group will look to minimize free passes, as they have allowed 68 walks this season.
Spring Hill College enters the matchup with an overall record of 7-7, including a 5-1 mark in SIAC play. The Badgers have been more successful on the road, posting a 6-4 road record compared to a 1-3 record at home.
The Badgers' offense is led by standout performers such as Seth Williams, who has demonstrated power with home runs and consistency in driving in runs. AJ Swader has effectively gotten on base and set enters the contest table for the middle of the lineup. Jackson Bell contributes with timely hitting, adding depth to the batting order.
Spring Hill's pitching staff features key contributors like Kai St. Germaine, who has secured wins with effective outings. The staff collectively maintains an ERA indicative of their competitive performances, with pitchers such as Korey Bunselmeyer providing valuable innings.
The Badgers' balanced approach, combining offensive production with solid pitching, makes them a formidable opponent as they prepare to host West Alabama.
Spring Hill comes into the contest looking to protect their home field and challenge the Tigers. West Alabama will need strong performance from both sides to secure a road victory. With their balanced offensive attack and key arms in the bullpen, the Tigers aim to continue their winning ways and gain momentum before returning to conference play.
The first pitch is set for 5 p.m. in Mobile, Alabama, as the Tigers seek their ninth win of the season.
