Baseball visits No. 14 Louisiana Christian University

Coming off a momentum-building conference win, Wiley University faces one of its toughest tests of the season Wednesday when it travels to face No. 14 Louisiana Christian University for a non-conference doubleheader at Billy Allgood Field.

First pitch is scheduled for 11 a.m. Live video is available for a cost. Live statistics will be available at no charge.

The Matchup

Louisiana Christian (21-5, 6-3 RRAC) enters the midweek set as one of the hottest teams in the NAIA, having vaulted to No. 14 in the first Top 25 poll of the season. The Wildcats are looking to build on last year's 29-26 campaign that saw them reach the NAIA Opening Round for the second consecutive year.

Wiley, meanwhile, looks to play the role of spoiler. The series history has been one-sided, with LCU holding a 38-2 record against Wiley in 40 meetings. Home-field advantage has been a staple for Louisiana Christian in this rivalry; the last 16 games have been played in Louisiana, and the programs haven't met in Marshall since 1998.

Wildcats' Triple Threat

Louisiana Christian's high ranking is backed by a potent offense and a disciplined pitching staff:

• Braden Trull: The lineup's engine, Trull is batting .430 with 24 RBI and 26 runs scored.

• Chris Kelley: The primary power source, Kelley leads the team with six home runs and a .408 average.

• Kade Linn: On the mound, Linn has been dominant, posting a 4-1 record and a 3.13 ERA with 47 strikeouts in just over 31 innings.

Wiley's Momentum

Wiley arrives in Pineville having snapped a three-game losing streak with a 13-7 win over Huston-Tillotson University. Key contributors include:

• Ivan Del Villar: The reigning spark plug for the offense, Del Villar went 6-for-12 in his last series and leads the HBCUAC with 10 doubles.

• Amir Mason: A constant threat on the bases, Mason is tied for third in the conference with 11 steals and ranks fourth with 17 RBI.

• Estevan Baca: Coming off a complete-game victory, Baca's ability to eat innings will be crucial in a doubleheader format.

Wednesday's games represent a significant opportunity for Wiley to notch a signature win against a nationally-ranked opponent before returning to conference play.