By Caleb Connelley
The Amegy Bank College Baseball Series will continue this weekend, with Oregon State, Ohio State, Auburn, and Baylor battling it out. The tournament is set to deliver another exciting slate of games as some of the top programs in their respective conferences battle for early-season momentum. With conference play coming a couple weeks, teams will look to fine-tune their lineups, test their pitching depth, and build their resumes for the NCAA Tournament. Here's everything you need to know heading into the series.
Oregon State: (5-2) Head Coach: Mitch Canham
Oregon State came in ranked #9 in the Week 3 D1Baseball.com poll. Oregon State enters the weekend with a record of 5-2. The Beavers played in the Round Rock Classic last weekend and it wasn't the best showing as they finished with two losses. Coach Canham did pick up a big, ranked win against #2 Virginia on the first day of the tournament, but the Beavers couldn't keep the momentum going through Saturday and Sunday as they took two losses to Oklahoma and Minnesota. Oregon State looks to make some noise in this tournament, get the momentum back, and get back to their winning ways.
Key Players to Watch for the Beavers: Gavin Turley (OF), Trent Caraway (IF), Eric Segura (RHP), Nelson Keljo (LHP), Easton Talt (OF), Aiva Arquette (SS)
Baylor: (7-1) Head Coach: Mitch Thompson
The Baylor Bears are off to an impressive start, holding a 7-1 record as they head to Arlington for the weekend. This marks just the fourth time since 1995 that Baylor has opened a season with such a strong record, giving the team plenty of momentum heading into a challenging weekend ahead. Head Coach Mitch Thompson has praised his team's performances but knows this tournament will provide a strong measuring stick. Facing elite competition, Baylor will have a chance to showcase its depth and talent on a national stage.
Key Players to Watch for the Bears: Ethan Calder (LHP), Tyriq Kemp (IF), Carson Bailey (LHP), Enzo Apodaca OF)
Ohio State: (1-5) Head Coach: Justin Haire
The Buckeyes entered the season with high hopes under new head coach Justin Haire, but their opening series against Arizona State resulted in an 0-3 sweep. Despite the losses, Ohio State showed flashes of potential, with several players stepping up in key moments. Last weekend, Ohio State played in the Jax College Baseball Classic, picking up their first win coming against #12 ranked NC State. The Buckeyes also got off to a 10-0 lead against undefeated Alabama, but the Crimson Tide's resilience led them to steal the victory 12-10. With these three matchups against powerful programs, the Buckeyes will need to step up both offensively and defensively. This tournament serves as another crucial test for Ohio State, giving them a chance to earn a couple big time wins and build their confidence before Big Ten play begins.
Key Players to Watch for the Buckeyes: Reggie Bussey (CF), Trey Lipsey III (OF), Chase Herrell (RHP), Lee Ellis (IF)
Auburn: (8-1) Head Coach: Butch Thompson
The Auburn Tigers come into the Amegy Bank College Series with a seven-game win streak with some of their notable wins coming against Troy, Wright State, and Holy Cross. The team's early success can be attributed to a combination of strong pitching and consistent hitting. The pitching staff has effectively limited opponents' scoring opportunities, while the offense has capitalized on key moments to secure wins. This cohesive team dynamic sets as a positive tone as they approach more challenging matchups. This tournament will provide Auburn with an opportunity to test their lineup, their pitching staff, and build their resume.
Key Players to Watch for the Tigers: Ike Irish (OF), Sam Dutton (RHP), Chris Rembert (IF), Cooper McMurray (1B), Cade Belyue (OF), Eric Snow (IF)
The Amegy Bank College Baseball Series will begin on Friday and will go through Sunday. Each team will play each other one game. The tournament will be played at GlobeLife Field in Arlington, Texas, home of the Texas Rangers. You can watch the complete tournament with a subscription at FloSports.
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