GREENVILLE, N.C. (Interstat) — American Athletic Conference rivals Charlotte and East Carolina will continue their weekend series Saturday at Clark-LeClair Stadium, with the Pirates looking to build on a decisive opening victory.

The Pirates (18-12, 1-0 AAC) dominated the series opener Thursday, routing the 49ers 12-2 behind a powerful offensive display. East Carolina’s Davin Whitaker was instrumental, going 2 for 4 with a home run and five RBIs in the win. The outfielder is a key player to watch, carrying a .333 average (10 for 30) with eight RBIs over his last eight games.

Charlotte (18-11, 0-1) will seek to even the series after its offense was stifled. A bright spot in the loss was reliever Adam Baker, who tossed two hitless innings. The 49ers will need more of that pitching stability after allowing 12 runs on 12 hits Thursday.

The teams were scheduled to play Friday, but that game was postponed. Saturday’s forecast calls for cloudy skies and a game-time temperature of 79 degrees.

Interstat’s game simulator projects a close contest, favoring East Carolina 6-5. The analytics firm’s ELO rating system gives the Pirates a 64% probability of victory.

Both teams enter with identical overall win totals, but East Carolina has shown potent scoring ability at home, including a 14-run outburst against UNC Wilmington on March 31. Charlotte had won four of five prior to Thursday’s loss, including a series win over South Florida.

Following Saturday’s game, the series finale is set for Sunday. Charlotte will visit North Carolina on Tuesday, while East Carolina hosts Duke.