Central Michigan at Michigan
ANN ARBOR, Mich. (Interstat) — Intrastate rivals Central Michigan and Michigan are set for a nonconference clash under the lights Tuesday at Ray Fisher Stadium, though rainy conditions and a temperature near 48 degrees could impact the evening.
The Wolverines (17-14) enter with momentum after a 15-4, seven-inning rout of Eastern Michigan on Monday. Michigan has won four of its last five games, fueled by a surging offense. A key catalyst is outfielder Colby Turner, who went 4 for 5 with a home run and four RBIs in that victory. Over his last 10 games, Turner has three homers and 10 RBIs.
The Chippewas (10-16) snapped a four-game skid with a 6-3 win over Western Michigan on Friday. Left fielder Cole Prout powered that victory, going 2 for 3 with a homer and five RBIs.
A player to watch for Central Michigan is right-hander Hayden Bailey. Over his last four starts, Bailey has a 3.00 ERA across 25 innings pitched, striking out 14. He has allowed just five hits over his last 12 2/3 innings of work.
Michigan holds the historical advantage in the series and boasts a stronger overall record this season. According to Interstat’s game simulator, the Wolverines are projected to win 5-3.
Both teams open conference series on the road this weekend. Michigan travels to Michigan State for a three-game set, while Central Michigan visits Bowling Green.