CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Interstat) — The surging Memphis Redbirds look to continue their strong start when they visit the struggling Charlotte Knights to open a weekend series at Truist Field on Friday.

First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 p.m. EDT under cloudy skies with a temperature around 57 degrees.

The Redbirds (9-2) enter with the best record in the International League, having won seven of their last eight games. They took three of four in a just-concluded series in Charlotte, including a 4-1 victory Thursday behind a strong start from right-hander Richard Fitts.

Fitts, a player to watch for Memphis, allowed one run over five innings in that win. In his previous start April 2, he earned a win over Norfolk with 5 2/3 innings of two-run ball.

Memphis will send left-hander Hagen Smith (0-1, 4.50 ERA) to the mound Friday. Smith took the loss in his first start of the season despite allowing three runs (two earned) over four innings.

The Knights (4-6) have lost five of their last six games. First baseman LaMonte Wade Jr., their key offensive player to watch, is mired in a slump. After a two-hit, two-RBI performance April 1, he is 3 for his last 24 (.125). He did, however, collect three hits and an RBI in Thursday’s loss to Memphis.

Charlotte’s probable pitcher was not announced.

According to Interstat, the Redbirds are projected as strong favorites with a 59.9% win probability. The game simulator predicts an 8-3 Memphis victory.

Following Friday’s contest, the series continues Saturday and Sunday before both teams embark on new series Tuesday. Memphis returns home to host Gwinnett, while Charlotte travels to face Jacksonville.