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Eastern Illinois (13-11, 4-5 OVC) at Belmont (9-12, 4-5 OVC)

GAME NOTES

GAME ONE | Friday, Apr. 2, 4:00 p.m.
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GAME TWO | Saturday, Apr. 3, 1:00 p.m.
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GAME THREE | Saturday, Apr. 3, 4:00 p.m.
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WELCOME TO NASHVILLE
Eastern Illinois (13-11, 4-5 OVC) are traveling to the Music City to face the Belmont Bruins (9-12, 4-5 OVC) for the first time since 2019. The Panthers' last meeting against the Bruins was in 2019, in which the Panthers fell 2-1. The last time EIU defeated Belmont was in 2018 when the Panthers won 2-1. The Panthers are looking to secure their second OVC series win over the Bruins.

ON THE MOUND
Ky Hampton will get the start in the opening game of the series after having arguably his best performance against SEMO last Friday. Hampton pitched eight innings and allowed three runs, two of which were earned. Despite the loss, he showed off his stamina and ability to pitch to soft contact. Cameron Doherty will get the start in the opening game of Saturday's doubleheader. Doherty was a surprise start last Saturday but exceeded expectations with a career-high nine K's in seven innings of work. The starter for the final game of the series is considered to be a game-time decision.

THE LINEUP
The Panthers have one of the most dangerous lineups in the OVC, ranking first in collective batting average (.281), hits (232), and runs (178). The Panthers have been lethal at the top of the order, with Trey Sweeney, Lucas DiLuca, Logan Eickhoff, and Ryan Knernschield all hitting over three hundred. Dane Toppel has stepped into the second spot in the lineup after Eickhoff's injury and has played well. Undoubtedly, it is hard to replace the nations leading hitter, but Toppel's speed and ability to make contact have made it easier for the Panthers to transition. 

ON DECK
Following this weekend series, the Panthers will face Valparaiso on Wednesday, Apr. 7, at 3 p.m.