SAN ANTONIO (Interstat) — The Nicholls State Colonels and Incarnate Word Cardinals will meet in the second game of their Southland Conference series Saturday evening at Roadrunner Field, looking to build momentum after an offensive opener.

First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m. under clear skies with a game-time temperature of 86 degrees.

The Colonels (11-12, 1-0 Southland) took the series opener 8-4 on Friday afternoon behind a powerful performance from first baseman Caston Thompson. He went 4 for 5 with a home run and three RBIs, spearheading a 13-hit attack. Thompson, a key player to watch, has driven in five runs over his last two games after a brief slump.

The Cardinals (11-10, 0-1) aim to even the series and will look for production from right fielder Preston Newberry, who drove in two runs in Friday’s loss. Newberry has been a consistent bat, recording multiple hits in four of his last eight games.

Both bullpens will be tested after Friday’s contest. Nicholls State relievers Tyler Avery and Nuno Parache combined for 6 1/3 scoreless innings. Incarnate Word got scoreless outings from Gus McKay and Braelin Pillot.

The teams have near-identical overall records, setting up a pivotal early conference matchup. According to Interstat’s game simulator, the projection favors a high-scoring affair with Incarnate Word edging Nicholls State 7-6.

Following Saturday’s game, the series concludes Sunday afternoon. Incarnate Word then travels to face Baylor on Tuesday, while Nicholls State hosts Northwestern State next weekend.