AKRON, Ohio (Interstat) — Miami (Ohio) visits Akron on Thursday in a Mid-American Conference baseball game at InfoCision Stadium, with first pitch scheduled for the afternoon. The game will be played in the evening.

The Redhawks (35-15) enter with a dominant record, while the Zips (20-31) look to upset a heavy favorite. The forecast calls for rain and a temperature of 61 degrees.

Miami (Ohio) is projected to win 8-3, according to Interstat’s game simulator. Interstat’s ELO system gives the Redhawks a 75.1 percent probability of victory.

Players to watch

Miami (Ohio) right-hander Troy Benko has been inconsistent but effective. On May 10 against Massachusetts, Benko threw 6 2/3 innings, allowing nine hits and three earned runs while striking out seven in an 8-7 win. He struggled May 3 at Western Michigan, yielding five earned runs in 5 2/3 innings in a 10-11 loss.

Akron designated hitter Easton Amundson is a power threat. On May 12 at Oakland, Amundson went 5-for-5 with two home runs and six RBIs in a 10-13 loss. He also homered May 10 against Central Michigan.

Recent results

Miami (Ohio) swept Massachusetts in a three-game series May 8-10, winning 9-8, 10-8 and 8-7. Benko earned the win in the finale. Carson Raether drove in four runs with a home run in that game.

Akron lost 13-10 at Oakland on May 12 despite Amundson’s performance. The Zips have lost seven of their last eight games, including a three-game sweep at Central Michigan.

Series context

Thursday’s game is the first of a three-game set between the MAC rivals. The teams also play Friday and Saturday at InfoCision Stadium.