Cold, Wet MAC Opener Awaits Eagles and Rockets

TOLEDO, Ohio (Interstat) — A chilly and wet Mid-American Conference opening series begins Thursday when the Eastern Michigan Eagles visit the Toledo Rockets at Scott Park Baseball Complex.

First pitch is scheduled for the afternoon, though evening conditions are expected with a game-time forecast of 37 degrees and rain.

Eastern Michigan (10-17) enters on a three-game winning streak after sweeping Central Michigan last weekend. The Eagles’ offense erupted for 34 runs in the series, capped by a 13-7 victory Sunday. Devan Zirwas was instrumental in that win, going 3 for 3 with a home run and six RBIs. The left fielder is batting .406 (13 for 32) with three homers and 16 RBIs over his last eight games.

Toledo (12-15) looks to rebound after a 10-5 loss at Ohio State on Tuesday. Shortstop Charlie Scholvin provided the bulk of the Rockets’ offense in that defeat, hitting a grand slam. He has driven in 14 runs over his last seven contests.

The Eagles have shown recent potency at the plate, scoring eight or more runs in five of their last six wins. However, consistency has been an issue, as evidenced by their sub-.500 record.

The Rockets have struggled lately, dropping five of their last seven games. Their pitching staff will be tested by an EMU lineup finding its rhythm.

Interstat’s game simulator projects a 7-4 victory for Eastern Michigan.

The teams are scheduled to continue the three-game series Friday and Saturday in Toledo, weather permitting.