SAN DIEGO (Interstat) — The Saint Mary’s Gaels and San Diego State Aztecs, two teams riding recent offensive surges, open a three-game series Friday at USD Sports Center.

Saint Mary’s (7-4) enters having won four of its last five, including a 13-4 rout at San Jose State last Sunday and a 7-2 victory over UC Davis on Tuesday. The Gaels’ pitching staff has been a strength, highlighted by reliever Noah Waldeck. The right-hander has not allowed a run in his last five innings over two appearances, striking out four.

San Diego State (8-5) is coming off a wild 13-10 win over Long Beach State on Wednesday, where the offense erupted for 13 hits. Center fielder Jake Jackson keyed that victory, going 3-for-5 with a home run and four RBIs. Jackson’s production has been pivotal; the Aztecs are 5-1 this season when he drives in a run.

The series marks a return to form for both lineups. The Gaels have scored 10 or more runs in four games this season, while the Aztecs have done so three times, including a 15-run output in a loss to San Diego on Feb. 22.

Pitching matchups for the series opener were not immediately announced.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, Saint Mary’s is projected to win Friday’s contest 8-5.

The series continues Saturday and Sunday in San Diego before both teams embark on midweek road games next Tuesday.