No. 13 ranked Auburn Tigers (9-2) are gearing up to host Air Force (4-7) in an intriguing matchup at Plainsman Park on Wednesday at 1 p.m. CT, marking the first-ever meeting between the two programs.
Head coach Butch Thompson expressed the significance of facing Air Force, emphasizing the opportunity to honor the discipline instilled within the academy's program.
"The more you play, I think it keeps unveiling areas where you know you need to continue to grow if you want to be the best team you can be down the road," remarked Thompson. "I have high regards for Air Force coming in here."
Probable starters for the matchup include junior right-handed pitcher Conner McBride (1-0, 2.08 ERA) for Auburn, squaring off against freshman right-hander Patrick Davidson (0-0, 0.00 ERA) for Air Force.
Quick hitters leading into the contest reveal Auburn's strong performance at home this season, boasting a 7-1 record and outscoring opponents 71-24 in eight home games. Additionally, the Tigers have showcased impressive power at the plate, homering in 11 consecutive games to start the season, marking a program record since at least 1979.
Auburn's offensive prowess extends beyond the long ball, as they currently rank second in the SEC with 29 stolen bases, with Cooper Weiss leading the charge with 12 stolen bases, setting a program record with four stolen bases in a single game twice this season.
On the defensive side, Auburn's pitching staff has delivered solid performances, with McBride leading the way with a 2.08 ERA.
As for the Falcons, coached by 14th-year head coach Mike Kazlausky, Air Force enters the matchup with a 4-7 overall record, looking to rebound from four consecutive losses. Notable offensive contributors for Air Force include Jay Thomason and Jake Greiving, while Chris Stallings leads the team with 12 RBIs.
On the mound, the Falcons boast a 6.20 staff ERA, with 15 pitchers seeing action this season, including five starters.
With both teams eager to make their mark in this historic matchup, Wednesday's showdown promises to be an exciting affair, showcasing the talents of both squads as they battle for supremacy on the diamond.
The game will be broadcast on the Auburn Sports Network, while fans can catch the action digitally on SEC Network+.
