Preview: Alabama A&M Bulldogs at UNC Asheville Bulldogs

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (Interstat) — The UNC Asheville Bulldogs will look to build on a series-opening victory when they host the Alabama A&M Bulldogs in the first game of a Saturday doubleheader at Greenwood Baseball Field.

First pitch for Game 1 is set for Saturday, March 7, 2026, under cloudy skies with temperatures near 63 degrees.

UNC Asheville (7-7) took the Friday opener 8-4, powered by a strong relief outing from Lucas Boesen (4.1 IP, 4 H, 2 ER, 5 K) and a 3-for-4, home-run day from Jake Minarik. Alabama A&M (3-9) saw a bright spot in reliever Will Tarpley, who tossed four hitless innings, allowing one earned run.

Tarpley is a key player to watch for the visiting Bulldogs. Over his last five appearances, he has allowed just three earned runs over 9.1 innings, striking out eight and holding opponents to a single hit. His recent outings include four hitless frames against Illinois-Chicago on March 1.

For UNC Asheville, Boesen is the standout arm. The pitcher has been dominant in two of his last three starts, including a seven-inning, one-run, six-strikeout performance against Rider on Feb. 20 and a combined 11.1 innings with just three earned runs allowed in his last two wins.

Alabama A&M seeks to snap a two-game skid after Friday’s loss and a 4-7 defeat at Tennessee Tech on Feb. 28. Their season has been marked by inconsistency, with three wins offset by several lopsided losses.

UNC Asheville has been more balanced, alternating wins and losses over its past six games. The home Bulldogs have shown potency, scoring eight or more runs in four of their seven victories this season.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, Saturday’s opener is projected to be a tight 4-3 victory for UNC Asheville.

The doubleheader will conclude the three-game weekend series. Alabama A&M travels to Samford on Tuesday, while UNC Asheville hosts Morehead State.