Delta Devils, Skyhawks Set for Afternoon Rubber Match

MARTIN, Tenn. (Interstat) — The Tennessee-Martin Skyhawks will look to secure a series win when they host the Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils in the finale of a three-game set Saturday afternoon at Skyhawk Park.

First pitch is scheduled for the afternoon under cloudy skies with a game-time temperature near 74 degrees.

The series is tied after a doubleheader split Friday. The Skyhawks (5-6) rolled to a 12-1 victory in the opener before the Delta Devils (2-9) rallied late, only to fall 8-7 in the nightcap.

A player to watch for Tennessee-Martin is outfielder Terence Grines, who went 3 for 5 with a home run and three RBIs in Friday’s blowout win. He is a key bat in a lineup that produced 20 runs across the two games.

Mississippi Valley State will hope for a strong outing from pitcher Matthew Cuzco. The right-hander has been effective in limited relief lately, tossing scoreless innings in two of his last three appearances, including one inning with two strikeouts against the Skyhawks on Friday.

The Delta Devils’ offense showed life in the second game Friday, led by Eric Williams (2 for 5, RBI) and Jace Jones (2 for 4, HR, RBI). They will need similar production to challenge a Tennessee-Martin squad that has won three of its last five.

The Skyhawks’ bullpen, anchored by Mason Little’s two-inning relief stint Friday, will aim to close out a tight game after Friday’s narrow escape.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, the projected final score is Tennessee-Martin 3, Mississippi Valley State 2.

Following Saturday’s contest, the Delta Devils continue their road swing with a midweek game at New Orleans on Tuesday. The Skyhawks will enjoy a brief break before hosting The Citadel for a three-game series starting next Friday.