Ball State returns to Ball Diamond this weekend for a three-game series against struggling Mid-American Conference rival Eastern Michigan.
Senior closer Erik Morrison enters the weekend with another chance to pick up his 13th save of the season, which would break the Ball State single season record. Since tying the record, Morrison hasn't had an opportunity to pitch. Three games in the past week were cancelled because of the weather, and the Cardinals' 10-3 win over Butler meant he wasn't needed.
"There's no anxiety for (waiting)," coach Greg Beals said. "He's going to break the record. It's just a matter of when."
The Butler win moved Ball State to 26-11 overall.
Chris Pestle and Marc Franz have permanently switched positions for the remainder of the season. Pestle started the season as the designated hitter and Franz started in left field, but Beals switched their positions earlier in the year to give Pestle some time in the field.
"Pestle is playing well defensively, and we feel that's our best lineup," Beals said.
Eastern Michigan (13-23 overall, 3-7 MAC) fell twice to Ohio State on Wednesday, 10-3 and 3-2. Jeff Davis possesses a .348 batting average to lead the Eagles, and also has the second best ERA of the team at 4.91 in seven appearances. Matt Dimich (3-4) leads the pitching staff with a 3.92 ERA.
While Ball State (11-2 MAC) has continued swinging the bat well in recent games, the Cards have been prone to getting off to slow starts.
"We're always talking about it," Beals said. "At the beginning of the year, we were getting strong starts, and now we're finishing strong."
Mike Sullivan's .349 batting average is followed by Kyle Dygert (.345) and Marc Franz (.342).
Second baseman Kyle Dygert was named MAC Scholar Athlete of the Week this week. The honor is the first of his career and the first of a Ball State baseball player this season.
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