MANKATO, Minn. – The Minnesota State Mavericks (25-8, 18-3 NSIC) return home this week for two important NSIC series, beginning with a three-game matchup against Augustana (28-9, 21-4 NSIC) Wednesday beginning at 1:30 p.m. and ending Thursday at noon. MSU will then host Minnesota Crookston (21-13, 14-8 NSIC) for a three-game series beginning Saturday at 1:30 p.m. and ending Sunday at noon.

Last Time Out

The Mavericks are coming off a series win over Southwest Minnesota State, taking two of three games in Marshall. After dropping the opener 4-1, Minnesota State responded in a big way, earning a 10-4 victory in game two before closing the series with a dominant 24-5 run-rule win in seven innings.

Offensively, MSU found its rhythm as the series progressed, highlighted by an explosive 24-run performance in the finale that included eight home runs and 21 RBIs. The Mavericks showcased both power and depth in their lineup, with multiple players recording multi-hit and multi-RBI performances across the final two games.

Jake Berkland led the offensive surge with multiple home runs on the weekend, while Louis Magers and Cole Yearsley also turned in standout performances, combining for several home runs and driving in key runs. CJ Trask and Ethan Bowers contributed to the offensive pressure with timely hitting and aggressive baserunning.

On the mound, Gannon Reidinger delivered a strong outing in game two, tossing six shutout innings to help secure the series-evening win. The Mavericks' pitching staff settled in after game one, limiting scoring opportunities and closing out both victories effectively.

Overall, Minnesota State enters the week with momentum after a well-rounded performance in the final two games of the series, combining timely hitting, power at the plate, and solid pitching.

Scouting Augustana

Augustana enters the week second in the NSIC standings, just behind Minnesota State, setting up a pivotal early-week showdown.

The Vikings are coming off a three-game sweep of Northern State and have shown consistency on both sides of the ball. On the mound, senior Mariano Gomez leads the staff with a 3.40 ERA and a perfect 6-0 record in 39.2 innings.

Offensively, Carter Heinsch paces Augustana with a .370 batting average, along with seven home runs and 43 RBIs.

Scouting Minnesota Crookston

Minnesota Crookston sits fifth in the NSIC standings and will face MSU following a midweek doubleheader against the University of Mary.

The Golden Eagles are coming off a split against Sioux Falls and are led on the mound by Isaac Wensloff, who holds a 4.57 ERA with a 5-1 record across 45.1 innings.

At the plate, Jackson Fliflet leads the team with a .368 batting average, 11 home runs, and 36 RBIs.