Examining The Series:
The Hoosiers recently came off a strong win against Wright State on Tuesday, beating the Raiders by a score of 12-4. This win increased their RPI by 15 spots, bringing them up to 126th in the country. By ELO rankings – a more analytical way to look at team performance – the Hoosiers increased their ranking by 9 spots to land at 75th in the country. This win was a big deal, as Wright State was a very even opponent to the Hoosiers by ELO ranking and the Hoosiers blew them out of the water. Hopefully, this is a sign of things to come as the Hoosiers dive further into Big Ten play.
Indiana now faces off against the Oregon Ducks for a weekend series in Eugene, Oregon. The games are scheduled as follows:
Friday, 3/13 @ 7:05 PM ET
Probable Starter: RHP Reagan Rivera, Gr. (0-2, 13.50 ERA)
Live Video: bit.ly/4sE1d0y
Live Audio: bit.ly/IUAudio
Live Stats: bit.ly/46VZA6j
Saturday, 3/14 @ 5:05 PM ET
Probable Starter: LHP Tony Neubeck, Gr. (1-1, 1.96 ERA)
Live Video: bit.ly/4sC49e9
Live Audio: bit.ly/IUAudio
Live Stats: bit.ly/46VZA6j
Sunday, 3/15 @ 3:30 PM ET
Probable Starter: LHP Brayton Thomas, So. (1-1, 3.12 ERA)
Live Video: bit.ly/3Pds0Cw
Live Audio: bit.ly/IUAudio
Live Stats: bit.ly/46VZA6j
Oregon is having a very strong season thus far and poses a real threat to the Hoosiers during this three game series. If the Hoosiers can steal two of three, it would be a massive win for the program this season. Oregon currently ranks 37th in the country by RPI rankings and 25th in the country by ELO rankings. As such, they are the clear favorites this weekend – especially being at home.
The Ducks currently rank 4th in the Big Ten standings by overall record, but there is an argument to be made that Oregon is the 2nd best team in the Big Ten and a true NCAA Tournament contender. They rank 2nd in the Big Ten in overall team OPS (.967) and 2nd in the Big Ten in overall team ERA (3.26), making them a well rounded force to be reckoned with. The Hoosiers will have their hands full, but are beginning to show signs that confidence is brewing and the tides are shifting.
Indiana Stats and Figures:
.983 OPS: Sophomore catcher and outfielder Hogan Denny has been the Hoosiers’ best hitter thus far on the year. He’s posted a .983 OPS with a slash line of .323/.434/.548 and has improved his numbers from his very good freshman campaign. The Hoosiers have history, of course, of producing MLB caliber catchers (even though Kyle Schwarber shifted away from the position in the majors). If Denny continues on this path, it will be very hard for MLB teams to ignore.
1.96 ERA: Graduate student starting pitcher Tony Neubeck has been the Hoosiers’ best pitcher thus far on the year. He’s posted a 1.96 ERA and has a quality strikeout to walk ratio, illustrating a strong command of the zone. He should start one of the three games against the Ducks this weekend. If Neubeck continues his strong start to the year, his start could easily be one of the games the Hoosiers steal over the weekend.
Prediction and Next Series:
This prediction is a battle of mind vs. heart. My heart says the Hoosiers win 2 of 3 and confidently push forward with their season as they go deeper into Big Ten play. My head says that Oregon is a great team and that we steal 1 of 3, especially on the road. Take from that what you will, I am not sure I can decide between the two.
After the Ducks, the Hoosiers face off against Vanderbilt for a one game series in Nashville, Tennessee. Despite historical success the Commodores are off to a poor start to the season, presenting an opportunity for the Hoosiers to capitalize.
Stay locked in with Hoosier Huddle for recaps of IU baseball games and series along with previews examining each one ahead of time. Go Hoosiers!