Preview: UNLV Runnin’ Rebels at Minnesota Golden Gophers

MINNEAPOLIS (Interstat) — Two of college baseball’s early-season hot teams meet Friday when the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels visit the Minnesota Golden Gophers in a non-conference matchup.

UNLV (10-4) brings a potent offense north, led by third baseman Drew Barragan. The junior is riding a nine-game RBI streak and has homered in three of his last six contests. He went 2 for 4 with a home run and three RBIs in UNLV’s 9-7 loss to Northern Colorado on Wednesday. For the season, Barragan is batting .404 (19 for 47) with three home runs and 24 RBIs.

Minnesota (9-3) counters with its own offensive catalyst in center fielder Easton Richter. The sophomore is coming off a 3-for-5, four-RBI performance in Wednesday’s 6-2 win over Milwaukee. Richter has driven in 12 runs over his last seven games and provides a key power threat in the middle of the Golden Gophers’ lineup.

The Rebels’ offense has been explosive, scoring nine or more runs in seven of their 10 wins, but they are looking to rebound after Wednesday’s home loss snapped a three-game win streak. Minnesota has won five of its last six, with its pitching staff allowing three or fewer runs in four of those victories.

Projections present a split decision. Interstat’s game simulator predicts a high-scoring affair with UNLV edging Minnesota 8-7. However, the same service’s ELO rating system gives the Golden Gophers a 55.2% probability to win Friday’s series opener.

The game is scheduled for a first pitch at °F at Siebert Field. It begins a three-game weekend in Minneapolis for UNLV, which will also face Southern Illinois and Northwestern at the Gophers’ ballpark. Minnesota continues its homestand with games against South Dakota State and Omaha this weekend.