LIVINGSTON, Ala. - Coming off a series win over Trevecca Nazarene, the No. 6 University of West Alabama baseball team returns to action on Tuesday, April 7th, traveling to Clinton, Mississippi for a non-conference midweek matchup against Mississippi College. First pitch is set for 5 p.m. as the Tigers look to continue their strong season at 28-8 overall and 18-6 in Gulf South Conference play.
Tuesday's contest marks the fourth meeting between the two programs this season, after West Alabama opened GSC play with a three-game sweep of the Choctaws at home. The Tigers took those matchups by scores of 7-5, 4-2, and 2-1, showcasing their ability to win tight, competitive games early in conference action.
Offensively, West Alabama has been one of the most consistent lineups in the region, hitting .301 as a team with 31 home runs and 222 RBIs. Nick Wilson leads the charge with a .351 average and seven home runs, while Rashad Robinson continues to be a dynamic presence at the top of the lineup, batting .309 with a team-high 41 runs scored and 14 stolen bases. Hudson Walburn (.305) and Austin Thacker (.337) add depth to a lineup that has produced 348 hits through 36 games.
The Tigers' pitching staff has been equally impressive, posting a 3.33 team ERA while holding opponents to a .236 batting average. Midweek outings have seen strong performances from Beau Bryant (2.61 ERA), Luke Clanahan (2.84 ERA), and Camden Diamond, giving West Alabama flexibility on the mound. Out of the bullpen, Thomas Kerby (1.97 ERA) and Tyler Pierce (2.08 ERA, four saves) have been reliable late-inning options.
Mississippi College enters Tuesday with a 23-15 overall record and a 16-8 mark in GSC play. The Choctaws feature a potent offense of their own, batting .284 as a team with 37 home runs. Alex Johnson leads the power numbers with 10 home runs and 36 RBIs, while Will Langston (.344) and Cade Gadman (.303) provide consistency at the plate. Ty Murphy adds speed on the basepaths, going 21-for-22 in stolen base attempts this season.
On the mound, Mississippi College holds a 5.16 team ERA, but has shown strength in midweek pitching. Blake Gollott (2.57 ERA) and Taylor Ballard (2.87 ERA) have been key contributors in those roles, limiting opposing offenses and keeping games within reach.
Historically, West Alabama has held the edge in the series, leading 76-38 overall. However, playing in Clinton has proven to be a challenge, with the Choctaws holding an 8-7 record at home against the Tigers over the last 15 meetings.
With both teams familiar with one another and possessing balanced lineups, Tuesday's matchup sets up as another competitive battle. West Alabama will look to carry momentum from its recent series win, while Mississippi College aims to defend its home field and avenge the earlier sweep.
