Preview: Western Michigan at UNLV

LAS VEGAS (Interstat) — The UNLV Runnin’ Rebels look to continue their strong early-season form when they host the Western Michigan Broncos in a nonconference baseball game Wednesday at Earl Wilson Stadium.

First pitch is scheduled for evening. The forecast calls for cloudy skies and a temperature of 71 degrees.

UNLV (5-2) enters with momentum after sweeping a three-game series from Bradley, outscoring the Braves 45-23. The Rebels’ offense has been potent, averaging over nine runs per game during their current three-game win streak.

A key figure in that surge is third baseman Drew Barragan. Over the three games against Bradley, he went 6 for 11 with eight RBIs, including a 4-for-6, four-RBI performance in Sunday’s 20-9 victory.

Western Michigan (2-4) aims to bounce back after a 10-0 loss to these same Rebels on Tuesday. The Broncos snapped a four-game skid with a 5-2 win at UC San Diego on Sunday.

The Broncos will look to pitcher Ricky Kidd to steady them. In that victory over UC San Diego, Kidd delivered five innings of hitless relief, allowing two earned runs while striking out two. His extended outing could see him play a pivotal role, either as a starter or key reliever, against UNLV’s powerful lineup.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, UNLV is projected to win 7-3.

Following this game, UNLV travels to face Santa Clara for a three-game series starting Friday. Western Michigan continues its road trip with a three-game set at Cal State Northridge beginning Friday.