AP Sports Preview

FULLERTON, Calif. (Interstat) — Cal Poly visits Cal State Fullerton on Saturday at Goodwin Field in a Big West series opener that pits two teams heading in opposite directions. First pitch is set for 6 p.m. under clear skies with temperatures near 72 degrees.

The Mustangs (27-20 overall) enter after a 4-11 loss at Santa Clara on Tuesday, snapping a three-game winning streak. Cal Poly had taken two of three at UC Irvine the previous weekend, outscoring the Anteaters 23-19 in the series. The Mustangs rank near the top of the Big West in runs per game, though their pitching has been inconsistent.

Erik Kvidahl, a right-handed reliever, has emerged as a key bullpen arm. In his last outing Tuesday, Kvidahl threw two scoreless innings, allowing no hits and striking out two. He has not surrendered an earned run in his past three appearances.

The Titans (20-25) have lost six straight, including a 4-13 defeat at Southern California on Tuesday. Cal State Fullerton was swept at home by UC Davis last weekend, dropping all three games by a combined six runs. The Titans have struggled offensively, scoring three runs or fewer in four of their past six contests.

Ryan Seo, a reliever, has been a bright spot. In his most recent appearance Tuesday, Seo tossed 1⅓ hitless innings with four strikeouts. Over his last five outings, he has allowed one earned run in 4⅔ innings while striking out eight batters.

Friday’s series opener between the teams ended in a 0-0 tie after weather halted play in the fourth inning, according to school officials. The game will be resumed later in the season.

Cal Poly’s projected lineup leans on a balanced attack. Saturday’s starter for the Mustangs has not been announced, while the Titans are expected to send a right-hander to the mound.

The Interstat game simulator projects a 6-2 Cal Poly victory.

After Saturday, the teams conclude the series Sunday. Cal Poly then travels to Fresno State on Tuesday before hosting Long Beach State for a three-game set May 14-16. Cal State Fullerton visits UC San Diego for a three-game series starting May 14.

Kvidahl, a sophomore, has posted a 3.12 ERA in 26 innings this season. Seo, a junior, carries a 3.86 ERA over 21 innings with 27 strikeouts.

The Mustangs lead the all-time series 68-66 entering play Saturday.