FAIRFAX, Va. (Interstat) — The La Salle Explorers and George Mason Patriots open a pivotal Atlantic 10 series Thursday, weather permitting, at Spuhler Field with the first pitch of a scheduled doubleheader slated for the afternoon. Rain and a temperature of 70 degrees are in the forecast.

La Salle (24-28) enters the day having won three of its last four, including a 10-8 victory over Saint Bonaventure on Sunday. George Mason (24-24) is looking to build on its own momentum after a series win at Dayton, capped by a 9-5 victory Sunday in which shortstop Owen Clyne went 3-for-5 with a home run and three RBIs.

The Explorers counter with designated hitter Ryan Perez, who is riding a hot stretch. In his last five games, Perez is 6-for-15 with five RBIs. He delivered a perfect 2-for-2 performance with three RBIs in Sunday’s win over the Bonnies. Perez has been a consistent presence in the lineup during La Salle’s recent surge.

George Mason’s Clyne has been equally productive. Over his last five games, the shortstop has driven in seven runs, belted two home runs and posted a .368 average. He combined for six RBIs in the first two games of the Dayton series, including a home run in each contest.

The Patriots have been streaky, winning seven of their last 10 but also dropping two of three to Fordham earlier in the month. La Salle, which has struggled against Saint Joseph’s but swept a doubleheader against Saint Bonaventure, continues to fight for a winning record.

Interstat’s game simulator projects a close game, with George Mason winning 7-6. Pitching matchups for Thursday’s twin bill were not announced.

The teams meet twice Thursday — once in the afternoon and once in the evening — and will close out the three-game series Friday and Saturday at Spuhler Field.