MANKATO, Minn. – The Minnesota State Mavericks (23-7, 16-2 NSIC) hit the road this weekend to face Southwest Minnesota State (15-18, 5-16 NSIC) in a three-game series at Legion Field in Marshall, Minnesota. First pitch is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, with the series concluding Sunday at 1:30 p.m.

Last Time Out

Minnesota State enters the weekend riding strong momentum after sweeping both Bemidji State and Wayne State earlier this week.

The Mavericks dominated Bemidji State on Monday, earning 14-2 and 16-0 wins in a pair of seven-inning contests. In game one, MSU broke things open in the fifth inning when CJ Trask crushed a grand slam to put the game out of reach.

The Mavericks set the tone early, capitalizing on walks, timely hitting, and aggressive baserunning. Jake Berkland reached base four times and scored three runs, while Logan Miller and Cole Yearsley each contributed multiple runs and RBIs. Yearsley also added a triple as part of a three-hit performance.

On the mound, Brody Schulte and Lucas Tolle combined for two hitless, scoreless innings while striking out three.

Game two saw more of the same offensive firepower. Trask stayed hot with a home run and multiple extra-base hits, finishing 3-for-3 with three runs and four RBIs. Eric Nuno added four hits and four RBIs, while Ethan Bowers delivered key run production late.

Gannon Reidinger led the pitching effort with four shutout innings, while Benjamin Berkhof, Chas Melvin, and Nick Johnson combined to complete the shutout.
Minnesota State carried that momentum into Wednesday's doubleheader sweep of Wayne State.

A ten-run fourth inning powered the Mavericks to a commanding 12-5 victory. Cole Yearsley led the charge with three hits and four RBIs, while Jake Berkland scored three runs. Ethan Bowers added a highlight play with a steal of home during a double steal situation.

Sam George earned the win, moving to 6-0 on the season after pitching six innings with five strikeouts and no walks.

The Mavericks relied on dominant pitching in the second game, securing a 2-0 win to complete the sweep. Mack Crowley tossed seven scoreless innings, allowing just four hits, while Ben Irsfeld closed the door with two perfect innings of relief.

Minnesota State broke through in the eighth inning, with Logan Miller scoring and Cole Yearsley driving in the eventual game-winning run.

Scouting SMSU

Southwest Minnesota State enters the series following two losses to Sioux Falls (6-2, 12-11).

Cody Wichmann leads the Mustangs' pitching staff with a 5.18 ERA and a 2-1 record over 41.2 innings pitched.

At the plate, Levi Lampert has been a key contributor, batting .395 with 47 hits, 43 runs, six home runs, and 25 RBIs.