Friday’s SWAC Baseball Preview: Grambling at Bethune-Cookman

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Interstat) – Bethune-Cookman looks to extend its dominance over Grambling when the teams meet Friday evening in a Southwestern Athletic Conference series opener at Jackie Robinson Ballpark.

The Wildcats (36-17) have won 12 of their last 14 games and are coming off a 23-1 rout of the Tigers on Thursday. Bethune-Cookman’s offense erupted for 23 runs on 18 hits, while starting pitcher Edwin Sanchez allowed one hit over four innings with three strikeouts.

Grambling (21-27) has lost four of its last five and is 0-4 against Bethune-Cookman this season. The Tigers have been outscored 56-9 in those four meetings.

Players to watch

Grambling pitcher Nick Robinson has been effective in limited recent work. Over his last four appearances, the right-hander has allowed no earned runs in 3 2/3 innings, striking out one. In Thursday’s loss, he threw 0.2 innings without allowing a hit or run. Robinson also worked scoreless outings against Arkansas-Pine Bluff (May 9) and Florida A&M (May 2-3).

Bethune-Cookman left fielder Darryl Lee has been a force at the plate. He went 4-for-6 with four RBIs in Thursday’s win, raising his season average to .327. Lee has hits in five of his last six games, including a home run against Stetson on May 5. He drove in three runs against Florida A&M on April 26.

Recent head-to-head

Thursday’s blowout was the most lopsided meeting this season. Grambling’s Ryan Davis went 1-for-3 and Martavius Thomas also singled. For Bethune-Cookman, catcher Maikol Lucena was 2-for-2 with three RBIs, and Sanchez dominated on the mound.

Projections

Interstat’s game simulator projects a 9-7 victory for Bethune-Cookman. The ELO system gives the Wildcats a 71.6 percent chance to win.

Up next

The teams play again Saturday, with Grambling seeking its first win of the series. First pitch Friday is set for 6 p.m.

Brief notes

Grambling is 2-9 in its last 11 road games. Bethune-Cookman is 18-5 at home this season. The Wildcats have won 10 of their last 11 SWAC contests. No forecast temperature was available at press time.