Vol State Spring Homecoming Weekend Plays Host to Cleveland State

Cleveland State took two of three from one of the most talented teams in the conference, Walters State, last weekend beating them in the first two games and then coming up short of the sweep with a 1 run loss in Game 3.  Vol State lost two of three last weekend in Jackson, but freshman pitcher Jacob Cole had a tremendous start for Vol State in the 4-2 game two win; he went all 7 innings for his second complete game of the year and improved his record to 4-2 on the year.  "As we mentioned last week, the stretch run will give us a good indication of how we stack up currently in our conference," said Coach Hunt.  He added, "I thought we played hard with a sharp focus for a game and a half of the 3 game set on the road last week and the results reflected that; we need to be able to sustain that focus for all three weekend games if we want to get back in the race."

 

Coming home might be of benefit to the Pioneers as they have a 15-6 home record in 2017.  Sophomores Eddie McDaniels (.314 BA, 13 RBI, and 14 SB) and Alex Lyon (.396 BA, 8 HR, 37 RBI, and 8 SB) along with freshman Jake Lyle (.344 BA, 6 HR, 27 RBI, and 15 SB) have been consistent offensively in the Vol State lineup, but the Neers will need to find some production around them to consistently maximize offensive production.  Vol State stranded 29 baserunners last weekend including 14 in game three.  Coach Hunt said, "Timely hitting and good pitching will usually give you a shot at winning a series."  The Pioneers who have been missing a starting pitcher in James Hatcher for most of the year may also be without another starter on the mound this weekend.  In addition, closer Chase Douglas status is still up in the air after missing all of last weekend due to injury.  That gives an opportunity for guys that haven't had a chance to stretch out for a start or get as many innings as they would like a chance to play a pivotal role in how they fare against a strong Cougar program.  "We should get a glimpse of the quality of depth in our pitching staff this weekend.  We have some confidence in all of them or they wouldn't be here," said Coach Hunt. 

 

WEEK 6 OF CONFERENCE PLAY