Preview: Norfolk Tides at Memphis Redbirds

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Interstat) — The Memphis Redbirds, off to a perfect start, will host the Norfolk Tides to open a six-game series at AutoZone Park on Tuesday.

The Redbirds (2-0) swept a two-game set at Gwinnett to begin the season, including a 6-5 win Sunday. Starter Brycen Mautz was sharp in that victory, allowing two hits and one earned run over five innings with six strikeouts. He will be a player to watch for Memphis.

Norfolk (1-1) split its opening series with Nashville, falling 6-2 on Sunday. Tides pitcher Levi Wells turned in a strong individual performance in the loss, striking out six over four innings while allowing just two hits and one earned run.

The scheduled pitching matchup features right-handers. Norfolk is expected to start Hunter Dobbins, while Memphis will counter with Cade Povich. Both pitchers enter without a decision this young season.

The Redbirds’ offense was led Sunday by third baseman César Prieto, who went 2 for 4 with a home run and two RBIs. For Norfolk, catcher Silas Ardoin had one of the team’s three hits in the loss.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, the projection favors Memphis with a predicted final score of 7-4.

Following Tuesday’s opener, the teams will play five more games through Sunday. Norfolk then returns home to face Jacksonville, while Memphis embarks on a road trip to Charlotte.

Game Facts:

First Pitch: Tuesday, 6:45 p.m. CDT (approximate time based on venue standard). Location: AutoZone Park, Memphis, Tennessee. Records: Norfolk Tides (1-1); Memphis Redbirds (2-0). Probable Starters: RHP Hunter Dobbins (NOR) vs. LHP Cade Povich (MEM). Series: This is the first of six consecutive games between the clubs.