Preview: Northern Illinois at Ohio Date: Friday, March 6, 2026

ATHENS, Ohio (Interstat) — The Northern Illinois Huskies, riding a strong start to the season, will open a three-game Mid-American Conference series against the struggling Ohio Bobcats on Friday evening at Bob Wren Stadium.

First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m. under a forecast calling for 63-degree temperatures and rain.

The Huskies (7-4) enter with momentum, having won five of their last six games, including a 14-8 road victory at Lindenwood on Sunday. Designated hitter Caden Robertson powered that win, going 2-for-4 with a home run and four RBIs. Robertson, a key offensive catalyst, has three homers and 10 RBIs over his last seven games.

Conversely, the Bobcats (2-11) seek to halt a five-game skid. They are coming off a 16-2 loss at Pittsburgh on Wednesday. Relief pitcher Aaron Blum provided a rare bright spot in that defeat, throwing two hitless innings while allowing one earned run. Blum has not allowed a hit over his last 3 1/3 innings of work across three appearances.

The series marks the MAC opener for both teams. Northern Illinois will look to capitalize on its offensive consistency, while Ohio aims to find footing after a difficult non-conference slate plagued by pitching struggles. The Bobcats have allowed 10 or more runs in six of their 11 losses this season.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, Northern Illinois is projected to win Friday’s opener 7-1.

The series continues Saturday and Sunday in Athens.