Preview: Xavier Musketeers at Vanderbilt Commodores

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Interstat) — The Vanderbilt Commodores, riding the momentum of a potent offensive weekend, will host the Xavier Musketeers in a nonconference matchup Tuesday evening at Ken Dugan Field at Stephen Lee Marsh Stadium.

First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m. CDT under clear skies with a game-time temperature near 66 degrees.

Vanderbilt (24-17) arrives after taking two of three on the road at Kentucky, capped by a 13-6 victory Sunday. The Commodores’ offense erupted for 23 runs in the series’ final two games. A key catalyst has been left fielder Will Hampton, who went 2-for-2 with a home run and four RBIs in Sunday’s win. For the season, Hampton is batting .312.

Xavier (19-22) enters following a successful road sweep of Seton Hall, including a 3-1 win Sunday. The Musketeers have won five of their last six games.

The Musketeers will look to right-hander Ashton Chronister to continue his recent dominance on the mound. In his last start Sunday, Chronister threw five hitless innings against Seton Hall, allowing one earned run and striking out six. Over his last four appearances, he has posted a 2.25 ERA with 16 strikeouts in 19 innings, though his control wavered in a 10-9 loss at Georgetown on April 4.

Vanderbilt’s starting pitcher for the midweek contest was not announced.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, Xavier is projected to win 8-6.

The game marks the start of a challenging stretch for both teams. Vanderbilt will prepare for a weekend home series against Texas, while Xavier heads into a Big East series against Saint John’s beginning Friday.