Troy Trojans Gear Up for Showdown with Marshall: A Sun Belt Showdown at Riddle-Pace Field
TROY, Ala. – The excitement is palpable as the No. 17 Troy Trojans prepare to defend their turf against the Marshall Thundering Herd for an action-packed three-game series at Riddle-Pace Field this weekend. With the Trojans' remarkable ascent to their highest national ranking in NCAA Division I history, the stage is set for a thrilling clash from Friday to Sunday.
Trojans on the Rise: A History in the Making
The Trojans have been riding high after clinching 2 out of 3 games against the No. 16 Coastal Carolina last weekend. This impressive performance catapulted them to No. 17 in this week’s NCBWA Top 25, a milestone that signifies their strength in the college baseball landscape. Following a challenging midweek schedule, where they fell to Wofford 14-3 before executing a remarkable seven-run comeback to topple Florida A&M 10-8, the Trojans aim to secure their footing as they dive headfirst into the Sun Belt action with a 19-7 overall record and 4-2 in conference play.
Offensive Firepower
Troy's offense is one of the most explosive in the country, dominating the Sun Belt Conference with a .306 team batting average and an impressive on-base percentage of .432. The Trojans have also marked their offensive prowess by ranking second in the league with 37 home runs, averaging 8.6 runs per game.
Spotlight on Stellar Performances
Freshman sensation Jimmy Janicki is turning heads with a staggering .727 batting average in conference games, highlighted by a crucial home run that led to victory over Coastal Carolina. Junior Dillon Kuehl has also made his mark, driving in key runs and showcasing prowess at the plate with two home runs against Florida A&M.
Mound Masters: Facing the Competition
On the pitching front, senior Garrett Gainous is set to take the mound for his seventh start of the season, having made history by ranking fourth for career strikeouts in Troy history with 237 strikeouts. Noah Edders is expected to bring the heat on Saturday after a strong showing last week, where he struck out a season-high nine hitters. The coaching staff, led by Skylar Meade, has yet to disclose the starter for Sunday’s finale, adding an air of intrigue to the matchup.
Gameday Details
Matchup: No. 17 Troy (19-7, 4-2 Sun Belt) vs. Marshall (12-13, 2-4 SBC)
Game Times:
Friday: 6 p.m.
Saturday: 3:33 p.m.
Sunday: 1 p.m.
Location: Riddle-Pace Field, Troy, Ala.
TV: Streaming on ESPN+
Radio: Tune in via Troy Sports Radio Network
Live Stats: Available at TroyStats.com
Looking at Marshall: The Thundering Herd
Marshall comes into this series hungry for a win with a current record of 12-13 and 2-4 in the Sun Belt. Under the guidance of third-year head coach Greg Beals, the Thundering Herd's pitching staff boasts a 5.20 team ERA, ranking them fourth in the conference.
Their Friday starter, Bryce Blevins, has a notable past, making it to the Preseason All-Sun Belt team, although he struggles this season with a 7.42 ERA.
On Saturday, sophomore Griffin Miller will take center stage with a commendable 2.62 ERA and a robust lineup facing him.
Unfortunately for Marshall, their offense has not been as potent, ranking ninth in the Sun Belt with a .256 batting average and seventh in home runs. Key players to watch include third baseman Eddie Leon, hitting at a .315 clip, and designated hitter Ethan, who leads with seven home runs.
Series History: The Rivalry Begins
The Trojans swept Marshall last season in their first meeting, cementing their dominance with scores of 7-6, 6-3, and 4-2 on the road. This weekend marks an exciting milestone as it will be the first-ever trip for the Thundering Herd to Troy.
Join us this weekend at Riddle-Pace Field to witness a historic series as the Trojans aim to continue their march toward the top of the Sun Belt standings. Don't miss any action—be part of the excitement and watch these talented athletes showcase their skills on the diamond!
For more information and updates, visit Troy Athletics.
