DAYTON – The University of Dayton baseball team returns to action Tuesday, hosting Miami (Ohio) at 3 p.m. As they continue their non-conference schedule. The Flyers are looking to rebound after a challenging weekend series against VCU, and will aim to capitalize on home-field advantage as they navigate a busy stretch of games.
Dayton’s recent performance has been marked by both offensive sparks and pitching consistency. While the series against VCU ended with a 1-2 record for the Flyers, Sunday’s 14-12 victory showcased their ability to perform under pressure. The team is focused on translating that momentum into consistent results as they face a diverse range of opponents in the coming weeks, including a unique upcoming game at Day Air Ballpark.
The Flyers’ offensive power was on full display in the series finale against VCU, with Jason Bello, Ryan MacDougall, and Bobby Stang each launching home runs. Colin Lynch led the Flyers’ offense throughout the weekend, posting an impressive .462 batting average. On the mound, Dayton pitchers combined for 32 strikeouts, with Jon Whiteside leading the charge with 11.
RedHawks Coming Off Series Loss
Miami (Ohio) enters Tuesday’s game with a 14-8 overall record and a 5-4 mark in the Mid-American Conference, according to the university’s official athletics website. Still, the RedHawks were swept in their most recent series against Northern Illinois, a result that likely fuels their desire for a strong showing against the Flyers. The team’s offense is spearheaded by Tommy Harrison, who currently boasts a .423 batting average and 32 RBIs. Harrison’s .795 slugging percentage ranks 31st nationally, highlighting his power at the plate.
Marcus Dierks adds another dimension to the Miami (Ohio) attack, leading the team with 20 stolen bases this season. On the pitching side, Clayton Burke has a 4.30 ERA and two wins, and is expected to be a key contributor for the RedHawks. Miami’s coaching staff will be looking for a response from their team after the disappointing series against Northern Illinois, and Tuesday’s game presents an opportunity to reset and regain momentum.
Recent History Between the Teams
The Flyers and RedHawks are well-acquainted, having faced off just last week. Miami (Ohio) secured a 13-7 victory in Oxford, Ohio, on March 19th. In that contest, Bello and MacDougall both went 2-for-3 at the plate, providing offensive sparks for Dayton. Stang contributed a crucial three-RBI double in the fifth inning, demonstrating his ability to drive in runs in key situations. Despite the offensive contributions, Dayton’s pitchers managed only five strikeouts in the game.
Flyers to Host Wright State at Day Air Ballpark
In a unique move, the University of Dayton and the Dayton Dragons have announced a special game at Day Air Ballpark on April 15th, where the Flyers will host Wright State. Tickets for this event are available for purchase here, with free tickets available for students here. This marks the sixth consecutive game for the Flyers at Day Air Ballpark, a venue that saw a record attendance of 6,743 for their 2023 game against the Raiders.
The decision to play at Day Air Ballpark reflects a commitment to enhancing the fan experience and showcasing the Flyers’ baseball program to a wider audience. The larger venue and atmosphere are expected to create a more vibrant and engaging environment for players and supporters alike. The university hopes to build on the success of last year’s event and continue to draw strong crowds to their games.
Looking Ahead
Following Tuesday’s matchup against Miami (Ohio), the Flyers will prepare for a three-game series against the Davidson Wildcats in Davidson, North Carolina, from March 27th to March 29th. This road trip will present a fresh set of challenges for the team, as they adjust to a different environment and face a new opponent. The series against Davidson will be an important test for the Flyers as they continue to build their resume and prepare for the remainder of the season.
Fans can follow the Flyers throughout the season on X/Twitter @DaytonBaseball, on Facebook Dayton Flyers Baseball, and on Instagram daytonflyersbaseball for updates, scores, and behind-the-scenes content.
The Flyers’ schedule remains demanding, but the team is focused on continuous improvement and building a strong foundation for success. Tuesday’s game against Miami (Ohio) offers a valuable opportunity to refine their approach and gain momentum as they head into the next phase of the season.
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