Peoria, Ill. - Bradley Baseball will face the Southern Illinois Salukis in their first home series this season from Friday, March 28 to Sunday, March 30.
Bradley Braves Overview
The Braves (3-17) are coming off a heartbreaking loss to the Lindenwood Lions on Tuesday. Bradley's offense continues to shine as Timmy O'Brien increased his batting average to .260 and his OPS to .906 after he went 4-for-7 with a home run, an RBI, and two runs scored. Mitch Ball showcased his power in Tuesday's matchup, crushing two homers and doubling his RBI total on the season to 10 after he finished the day going 2-for-6 with a walk, five RBI, and two runs scored.
Bobby Atkinson (.890 OPS) has come through in the clutch this season, leading the Braves with 17 RBI, and is tied for the lead in doubles with seven. Mason Breidenbach has been very consistent at the plate, leading the Braves with a .338 batting average that ranks 16th in the Valley. He also leads all qualified hitters on Bradley with a .458 on-base percentage.
On the mound, Bradley found security from Drew Politte, who threw 7 ⅓ innings, allowing three earned runs while striking out five and only walking one in his outing against the Lions. The Braves are going to need more outings like that, as they have a team ERA of 10.08 and have struggled on the mound this season.
Southern Illinois Salukis Overview
Southern Illinois (16-7) has had a great start this season and has won their last three games, heading into their weekend series against the Braves. The Salukis have five players with an OPS over 1.000, led by Jordan Bach (.389 AVG, 13 2B, 2 HR, 1.118 OPS) and Gabe Petrucelli (.309 AVG, 6 2B, 6 HR, 1.188 OPS). Matt Schark (.344 AVG, 25 RBI) and John Lemm (.262 AVG, 18 RBI) have been a massive power boost, with each of them adding seven home runs to the Salukis' 41 on the season.
On the mound, Alec Nigut (4-0, 0.99 ERA, .80 WHIP) has been lights out as a starter, as he has held hitters to just a .165 batting average while striking out 27, the second most on the team. Southern Illinois has seen some issues with their pitching depth, but Sam Frizzi (1.69 ERA, .94 WHIP) has been a solid closer, as he leads the team with three saves and has allowed just two runs in his eight appearances.
Matchup Outlook
The Braves are looking for a fresh start at home and to generate some momentum heading into MVC play. Pitching stability and inning eaters will play a huge role for a Braves team that is looking to turn things around. Bradley's offense needs to come out strong this weekend to compete with the Salukis' offense that currently leads the MVC in runs scored with 188.
