The undefeated WVU baseball team (12-0) returns to campus for its first full home series of the season against Kennesaw State (5-9). The Mountaineers played one game at Kendrick Family Ballpark, but this three-game homestand is their first true stretch in front of the home crowd—many of whom helped the team sell out its season tickets for the first time in history. And they could certainly use the break from the road. Read more WVU Baseball: Previewing the Series Against Kennesaw State below
“We played nine games in ten days in three different states, and we just got back from that,” said coach Steve Sabins on wvsportsnation.com. “That’s a pretty grueling ten game set there – but it’s been a lot of road games… so getting to come back and get a little bit of sleep and get our feet under us is what we need right now.”
The pitching staff has been outstanding this season, posting a 2.66 ERA—ranking in the nation’s top ten and leading the Big 12. They boast both depth and star power, with Griffin Kirn earning Big 12 Co-Pitcher of the Week honors and Carson Estridge yet to allow a run in 15 innings pitched.
The Mountaineers rank third in the nation in batting with a .314 average, showcasing impressive talent at the plate. Senior Jace Rinehart leads the way, hitting .435, with fellow senior Brodie Kesser close behind at .425. Grant Hussey has launched two home runs, while nine other players have gone deep this season.
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Series Notes and Notables
Game 1: Friday, March 7
- Start Time: 2:00 p.m. ET
- WVU Starter: LHP Griffin Kirn (2-0, 2.04 ERA, 17.2 IP, 16 K)
- Kennesaw State Starter: RHP Braden Osbolt (0-0, 4.91 ERA, 14.2 IP, 12 K)
- Watch: ESPN+
Game 2: Saturday, March 8
- Start Time: 2:00 p.m. ET
- WVU Starter: RHP Gavin Van Kempen (2-0, 2.70 ERA, 13.1 IP, 14 K)
- Kennesaw State Starter: RHP Ty Bayer (1-1, 3.46 ERA, 13 IP, 12 K)
- Watch: ESPN+
Game 3: Sunday, March 9
- Start Time: Approx. 12:00 p.m. ET
- WVU Starter: TBA
- Kennesaw State Starter: TBA
- Watch: ESPN+
Sabins mentioned that he plans to use right-handed pitcher Carson Estridge on Sundays, if he is not called upon in relief during the series.
Kennesaw State (5-9) has faced early-season challenges in its first year in Conference USA under head coach Ryan Coe. The Owls have struggled offensively after losing key seniors who accounted for much of last year’s production. Their schedule has been demanding, featuring matchups against strong opponents like Georgia Tech and Columbia. Due to stadium construction, they are playing home games at S. Walter Kelly Sr. Memorial Field for the first time in a decade. This weekend marks their first trip to Morgantown, with WVU leading the all-time series 2-1. Kennesaw State looks to use this series to gain momentum moving forward.
West Virginia University is encouraging the fans to attend not only with affordable tickets but also promotions that include Friday Night Happy Hour, blanket giveaway, and family day. They could use the support as they head back on the road next weekend to open Big 12 play against Oklahoma State.
