Preview: Central Michigan at Ball State

MUNCIE, Ind. (Interstat) — The Central Michigan Chippewas and Ball State Cardinals will continue their Mid-American Conference series Saturday at Ball Diamond, with first pitch scheduled for the afternoon.

The Chippewas (6-5) edged the Cardinals 8-7 in a back-and-forth series opener Friday night. Central Michigan’s Cole Prout powered the win, going 2-for-5 with a home run and four RBIs. The left fielder is hitting .333 over his last five games with two homers and six RBIs.

Ball State (5-7) saw a strong performance from Brayden Huebner in the loss. The designated hitter went a perfect 3-for-3 with a home run and two RBIs. He is 4-for-6 over his last two contests.

Central Michigan has won four of its last six games. Ball State has lost five of its last six, with its only win in that stretch a 1-0 victory at Hawaii on Feb. 28.

The weather forecast for Saturday in Muncie calls for rain and a game-time temperature of 72 degrees, which could impact field conditions and pitching plans.

Interstat’s game simulator projects a close contest, favoring Central Michigan 5-4.

Following Saturday’s game, the teams will conclude the three-game series Sunday afternoon.