In a key midweek matchup, Southeast Missouri State University's baseball team, the Redhawks, is set to face off against Middle Tennessee State University's Blue Raiders in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The game, scheduled for March 18 at Reese Smith Jr. Field, will commence at 4:00 p.m. central time. This contest serves as the final non-conference game before the Redhawks dive into Ohio Valley Conference play, with their first league match slated for the following weekend.

This encounter marks the third meeting between head coach Andy Sawyers and the Blue Raiders during his tenure at SEMO. Historically, the Redhawks have struggled against MTSU, with two previous losses. However, buoyed by recent performances, including an impressive outing by right-handed pitcher Nathan Mertens, who earned OVC Pitcher of the Week honors, the team aims to turn the tide. Mertens's stellar performance highlighted the team's pitching prowess, which ranks among the top five nationally in strikeout-to-walk ratio.

Coach Sawyers's squad has demonstrated strong offensive capabilities, particularly from its outfielders. Leading the charge are Cole Warehime and Michael Mugan, both excelling in batting averages and contributing significantly to the team's overall performance. With just one game left before diving into conference play, the Redhawks find themselves in second place in the OVC standings, trailing only Tennessee Tech.

The Redhawks' offense has been bolstered by consistent contributions from several players, including catcher Shea McGahan, who has reached base safely in six consecutive games. Additionally, outfielder Ty Stauss showcased his skills in a recent series finale, delivering a multi-hit performance that underscored the team's depth and versatility.

As the Redhawks prepare for this pivotal matchup, they aim to capitalize on their strengths while addressing areas for improvement. With a focus on refining their strategy and leveraging the talents of standout performers like Bryce Cannon, who leads the team in doubles, the Redhawks are poised to make a significant impact in their upcoming games. Their ability to execute effectively could determine their standing as they enter the competitive landscape of the OVC season.