Preview: Lehigh at Navy in Patriot League Baseball Doubleheader Opener

CAPE SAINT CLAIRE, Md. (Interstat) — The Navy Midshipmen look to continue their strong season and avenge a recent series loss when they host the struggling Lehigh Mountain Hawks in the opener of a Patriot League doubleheader on Saturday.

First pitch at Terwilliger Brothers Field at Max Bishop Stadium is set for Saturday afternoon under cloudy skies with a game-time temperature of 71 degrees Fahrenheit.

Navy (16-11) holds a decisive advantage in the standings over Lehigh (5-19). The Midshipmen took two of three from the Mountain Hawks in Bethlehem from March 13-15, but it was Lehigh that claimed the series finale 3-1. In that game, Navy starter Owen Phypers struck out nine over 4 2/3 innings but took the loss, allowing three earned runs on no hits with seven walks.

Phypers, a key player to watch for the Midshipmen, has been effective despite recent tough-luck outcomes. In his last start on March 29, he threw five no-hit innings against Army but was tagged with the loss in a 4-3 defeat.

Lehigh’s offense will rely on hot-hitting outfielder Owen Walewander. He is coming off a powerful performance in a 16-10 loss at Saint Joseph’s on Tuesday, where he went 3 for 5 with two home runs and five RBIs. In his last 10 games, Walewander has four home runs and 16 RBIs, providing a bright spot in a lineup that has struggled during a 2-8 stretch over its last 10 contests.

The Mountain Hawks’ pitching staff faces a challenge against a Navy team that has been more consistent. Lehigh allowed 16 runs to Saint Joseph’s in its last outing, though relievers Jackson Shepelsky and Declan Wilkes provided scoreless work in that game.

Navy, coming off a tight 4-3 loss at Army on March 29, has won five of its last eight games. Patrick Walsh went 2 for 2 with a home run and two RBIs in that contest.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, the projected final score is Navy 3, Lehigh 2.

The doubleheader opener marks the start of a crucial Patriot League series for both teams as they enter the heart of their conference schedule. Game two of the twin bill will follow on Saturday, with the series finale scheduled for Sunday.