Preview: Butler Bulldogs at Wichita State Shockers

WICHITA, Kan. (Interstat) — The struggling Butler Bulldogs open a three-game series at the Wichita State Shockers on Thursday at Eck Stadium, looking to snap a five-game losing skid.

First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m. under clear skies with temperatures near 47 degrees.

Butler (2-11) arrives after a 17-10 road loss at Bellarmine on Tuesday, a game that typified its season struggles. The Bulldogs have allowed 10 or more runs in eight of their 11 losses. Their only wins came on Feb. 28 at Marshall.

The bright spot for Butler has been first baseman Matthew Rhoades. He is 9 for 31 (.290) with four home runs and eight RBIs over his last eight games, including a 3-for-5 performance with a homer and two RBIs in Tuesday’s defeat.

Wichita State (9-6) aims to rebound after a 7-5 loss at in-state rival Kansas State on Tuesday. The Shockers have split their last six games.

Third baseman Jayson Jones has been a consistent force for Wichita State. He drove in three runs with a home run in the loss at Kansas State and is batting .357 (15 for 42) with three homers and 10 RBIs over his last 10 contests.

The series marks the first meeting between the programs since 2015. According to Interstat’s game simulator, Wichita State is projected to win the opener 5-1.

The teams will play a doubleheader on Saturday to conclude the series.

Probable Key Players:

Butler: 1B Matthew Rhoades. His power surge provides the Bulldogs’ best chance to keep pace offensively. Wichita State: 3B Jayson Jones. The hot-hitting infielder anchors the middle of a lineup averaging 7.3 runs per game.

Up Next:

The series continues Friday at 6 p.m. at Eck Stadium. Butler opens a two-game home set with Purdue next Tuesday. Wichita State hosts Nebraska for two games next Tuesday and Wednesday.