Cajuns Host Texas State to Close Out Home Slate

It's hard to believe, but the Ragin' Cajuns season at M. L. "Tigue" Moore Field at Russo Park comes to an end this weekend as Louisiana hosts Texas State in a three game Sun Belt Conference series.

Friday and Saturday games are scheduled for 6:00 pm, while Sunday's game is slated for a 1:00 pm start.

There will be plenty of festivities surrounding the final weekend.  Friday night those student-athletes who have completed their academic requirements will receive their degrees at home plate in pre game ceremonies.  Saturday, the Cajuns seniors will be honored before the game and on Sunday, the Cajuns celebrate Mother's Day as the mothers will be on hand to throw out the first pitch.

Texas State (24-25, 10-14 Sun Belt) got off to a 5-1 start in league play, but are just 5-13 since.  But one thing has remained constant during the season:  These guys can really hit the ball.

OF Theodore Hoffman, a Sun Belt Player of the Year candidate, is among the league leaders in batting average (.335), runs (45), hits (70), doubles (15), home runs (13), RBI (44), slugging percentage (.602) and stolen bases (13).  Second baseman Jonathan Ortega, a pre-season All Sun Belt pick, has lived up to his reputation, leading the club in hitting (.337) with six homers and 39 RBI.  He has also stolen 16 bases and has more walks (24) than strikeouts (16).  Luke Sherley (.324), Dylan Paul (.313) and Ryan Newman (.299) are the other top hitters for the Bobcats.

Conversely, the Bobcats have had their struggles on the mound, sporting a 5.63 team ERA.  Texas State will start three right handers, with Connor Reich (2-4, 5.70) getting the opening night start.  Nicholas Fraze (4-2, 4.79) and Cam Baird (1-5, 5.32) will start Saturday and Sunday, respectively.  Joe Powell, Braden Theriot and Blake Walden have been the top arms out of the bullpen.

The Cajuns (30-29-1, 14-9-1 Sun Belt) will use the same starting rotation as a week ago, with a trio of lefties.  Gunner Leger (9-2, 1.47) getting the Friday start.  Leger has been especially effective at home, sporting a 6-0 record and an 0.43 ERA.  Colten Schmidt (1-1, 3.21) will get the Saturday nod, while Hogan Harris (3-2, 2.62) will start in the finale.

All games can be heard on 96.5 KPEL-FM this weekend.