Preview: Washington State Cougars at Texas State Bobcats

SAN MARCOS, Texas (Interstat) — The Texas State Bobcats, riding a wave of early-season success, will look to secure a series victory when they host the Washington State Cougars in the second game of a three-game set Friday at Bobcat Ballpark.

First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m. CDT under cloudy skies with a game-time temperature near 78 degrees.

Texas State (10-2) continued its hot start with a 13-11 win in a Thursday night slugfest to open the series. The Bobcats’ potent offense, which has scored eight or more runs in seven games this season, will be countered by a Washington State (5-7) team seeking to even the series and build momentum.

A key matchup will feature two standout pitchers. Washington State will look to right-hander Griffin Smith to provide stability. Smith has been effective in recent outings, including a six-inning, two-run performance in a win at Cal Poly on Feb. 22. Over his last three appearances, he has allowed five earned runs in 11 2/3 innings with seven strikeouts.

He will face a formidable challenge in Texas State’s Jesus Tovar, who has been nearly untouchable. The right-hander is coming off back-to-back scoreless starts, including a six-inning, seven-strikeout gem against Abilene Christian on March 1 and an eight-inning, three-hit shutout of Gonzaga on Feb. 22. In his last 14 innings, Tovar has allowed zero runs and just three hits while striking out 13.

The Bobcats have been dominant at home, boasting an 8-1 record at Bobcat Ballpark this season. Their only home loss came against Gonzaga on Feb. 21. Washington State, navigating a challenging early road schedule, is 4-6 away from Pullman.

According to Interstat, the odds favor Texas State. The service’s game simulator projects a 7-4 Bobcats victory, and its ELO rating system gives Texas State a 69.70% probability of winning.

Following Friday’s contest, the series concludes Saturday. Washington State then travels to San Diego State for a three-game series beginning March 13. Texas State will host the University of Texas on March 10 before opening Sun Belt Conference play at Louisiana-Monroe on March 13.