LIVINGSTON, Ala. – The West Alabama Tigers (14-9, 8-4 GSC) are set to take on William Carey in a non-conference matchup at Tartt Field on Tuesday, March 11, at 4 p.m.
The Tigers look to build on their recent success and continue their strong performance at the plate and on the mound.
West Alabama's offense has been powered by standout performances from multiple players.
Eli Burwash leads the team with a .360 batting average and a 1.019 OPS, tallying 31 hits, seven doubles, and three home runs while driving in 15 runs.
Joe Watkins has also been a key contributor, posting a .307 average with six home runs and a team-high 23 RBIs.
Blake Vineyard (.320, 15 RBIs) and
Nick Wilson (.286, 19 RBIs) add depth to a lineup that has produced 25 home runs and 128 RBIs through 23 games.
The Tigers' lineup also benefits from consistent plate discipline, with 105 walks drawn on the season, contributing to a .387 on-base percentage. Speed on the bases has also played a role, as UWA has swiped 28 bases in 42 attempts.
On the mound,
Bryant Quimby (3-2, 3.69 ERA) has led the starting rotation, tossing 31.2 innings with 29 strikeouts.
Maxwell Schumacher (3.91 ERA) and
Judah Buckner (0.00 ERA, 3 saves) have been reliable contributors, with the bullpen featuring strong performances from
Graham Holland (1.59 ERA) and
Gates Pee (3.60 ERA, 1 save).
Defensively, UWA has been sharp, boasting several players with perfect fielding percentages, including
Bryce Newman (1.000 FLD%, 75 chances) and Watkins (1.000 FLD%, 58 chances). The Tigers' catchers have also been effective at controlling the running game, throwing out 11 would-be base stealers this season.
William Carey University is a strong opponent with an 18-4 overall record and a 10-2 mark in SSAC play. The Crusaders enter the matchup with a potent offense, hitting .291 as a team while averaging over nine runs per game. Bridley Thomas leads the way with a .375 batting average and a staggering .625 on-base percentage, while Preston Ratliff and Josh Alexander provide power, combining for 11 home runs and 60 RBIs.
On the mound, William Carey boasts a solid pitching staff, holding opponents to a .216 batting average. Matthew Davis (4-1, 2.64 ERA) and Conner Wilson (3.21 ERA) anchor the rotation, while Luke Lycette (1.27 ERA) has been effective in relief.
First pitch is set for 4 p.m. at Tartt Field. West Alabama will look to extend its momentum and secure another non-conference win before returning to Gulf South Conference play.
