Diamond Dogs Face First Road Test Wednesday At UAB
Sophomore right-hander Kendall Graveman (1-0, 2.25), one of seven Bulldog players who hail from neighboring Alabama, will open on the hill for State. The Blazers, coached by former MSU assistant coach Brian Shoop, have tabbed senior ace righty Dillon Napoleon (2-0, 1.80) for starting mound duty.
The Diamond Dogs hold a 31-9 all-time series lead against the Blazers in a rivalry that got its start in Birmingham in 1982. State has claimed the last 16 meetings, including last year's come-from-behind 6-5 decision that ended with back-to-back solo home runs by then-seniors Luke Adkins and Connor Powers.
Senior catcher Cody Freeman (.421) paces the Bulldogs at the plate while senior third baseman Jarrod Parks (.400) leads the team with 18 hits and 15 RBI.
The Blazers are paced by outfielder Jamal Austin (.488) and third baseman Patrick Palmeiro (.340, 14 RBI), this week's Conference USA Player of the Week and the son of former Mississippi State and Major League great Rafael Palmeiro.
The Tuesday rainout against Mississippi Valley State has been rescheduled as a 4 p.m. day/night doubleheader Tuesday, May 10 when the Delta Devils make a return trip to Dudy Noble Field.
State opens a three-game weekend home series against first-time opponent Sacred Heart University (4-3) Friday at 5 p.m. The Bulldogs and the Pioneers also meet Saturday at 6 p.m. and Sunday in a 1:30 p.m. CDT series finale.