Holy Cross visits Bucknell in Patriot League clash

LEWISBURG, Pa. (Interstat) — Holy Cross (24-27) visits Bucknell (26-23) on Tuesday afternoon at Eugene B. Depew Field in a Patriot League matchup. The Bison look to bounce back after Monday’s 11-2 loss to the Crusaders, while Holy Cross aims to build on its most complete performance of the season. First pitch is set for late afternoon under clear skies, with temperatures near 89 degrees.

Players to watch

Holy Cross starter Jaden Wywoda has been dominant in his last four outings, all wins. On Monday against the Bison, he threw a complete game, allowing no hits and two earned runs while striking out seven over nine innings. In his previous start, a 5-3 win at Army on May 9, he allowed two earned runs over six innings with four strikeouts. On May 2 at Lafayette, he fired another complete game, allowing one earned run and striking out nine in a 4-2 win. Overall, Wywoda has struck out 29 batters over his last 31 innings while surrendering just five earned runs.

Bucknell starter Jake Schultz struggled in Monday’s loss, allowing six earned runs on six hits over 6 1/3 innings with four strikeouts. However, he has shown flashes of dominance this season. On May 2 at Lehigh, he tossed a complete game shutout, allowing no hits and no runs over six innings with six strikeouts. In a 16-4 win over Navy on May 10, he allowed three earned runs over six innings with three strikeouts.

Recent head-to-head

Holy Cross has won three of the last five meetings, including Monday’s rout. The Crusaders took two of three in a doubleheader on April 11, winning 7-5 in both games, while Bucknell won the nightcap 12-4 on April 12. Holy Cross also won 14-5 on April 10.

In Monday’s game, Holy Cross center fielder CJ Egrie went 4 for 4 with a home run and two RBIs, while first baseman Braden Connors went 2 for 4 with a home run and three RBIs. Bucknell relievers Dante Pavone and Mikey Myro combined for two innings, allowing three earned runs.

Outlook

Interstat’s game simulator projects a 7-6 Holy Cross victory. Both teams will meet again Wednesday for the series finale. Holy Cross enters with momentum after winning four of its last six, while Bucknell has dropped two of its last three.