Tech Baseball Stays Home for Midweek Matchups Against MTSU, North Alabama
Tennessee Tech baseball returns to Quillen Field at Bush Stadium for a pair of midweek contests, hosting in-state rival Middle Tennessee on Tuesday before welcoming North Alabama on Wednesday. First pitch for both games is scheduled for 6 p.m. CT, with both matchups available to stream live on ESPN+.
By Jeff Bowe, TTU Athletics Media Relations
COOKEVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Tech baseball continues its season-long eight-game homestand at Quillen Field at Bush Stadium with a pair of midweek contests, hosting in-state rival Middle Tennessee on Tuesday before welcoming North Alabama on Wednesday. First pitch for both games is scheduled for 6 p.m. CT, with both matchups available to stream live on ESPN+.
The Golden Eagles (13-27, 3-12 OVC) look to build momentum following a competitive weekend against Southeast Missouri, highlighted by a dominant 17-hit, 10-run performance in Saturday's victory. Even in defeat on Sunday, Tech continued to show resilience offensively, producing 10 hits and multiple comeback efforts throughout the contest.
GAME INFORMATION
Tuesday, Apr. 20 - 6 p.m. vs. MTSU | ESPN+ | LIVE STATS
Wednesday, Apr. 21 - 6 p.m. vs. North Alabama | ESPN+ | LIVE STATS
Tennessee Tech's offense has emerged as one of the most dangerous units in the Ohio Valley Conference, powered by elite individual production and a deep lineup. Jorsixt Jimenez has been one of the premier hitters in the league, ranking second in the OVC with a .388 batting average while also leading the conference in RBI (50) and OPS (1.305). The standout slugger also sits among the league leaders in hits (54) and home runs (15), cementing his status as one of the most complete offensive threats in the conference.
Jimenez is far from alone in driving the Golden Eagle attack. Manny Garza (.319) and Owen Lee (.306, 25 walks) both rank among the OVC's top hitters, while Landon Smelser and others continue to provide balance throughout the order. As a team, Tennessee Tech ranks among the league's top offenses with 49 home runs and a .436 slugging percentage, showcasing its ability to produce runs in bunches.
The Golden Eagles have also demonstrated strong defensive capabilities, ranking among the top half of the conference in fielding percentage (.973), while multiple players—including Jimenez, Garza, and Lee—appear among the OVC leaders in defensive metrics.
SCOUTING MTSU | Middle Tennessee (21-19, 8-10 CUSA) enters Tuesday's matchup with a balanced offensive approach, hitting .282 as a team with 45 home runs. Brett Rogers (.343), Owen Nowak (.326), and Dean O'Neill (10 HR, 44 RBI) headline the Blue Raider lineup.
Despite their overall success, MTSU has struggled away from home with a 2-12 road record, providing an opportunity for the Golden Eagles to take advantage on their home field. On the mound, the Blue Raiders carry a 4.57 ERA with 321 strikeouts in 340.1 innings.
SCOUTING NORTH ALABAMA | North Alabama (19-20, 11-7 ASUN) brings a power-heavy lineup into Wednesday's contest, hitting .261 with 55 home runs. Nash Rippen (.323, 11 HR) and Dylan Coleman (14 HR) lead the offensive charge.
The Lions' pitching staff has a 6.27 ERA, although they have demonstrated the ability to generate swings and misses with 288 strikeouts this season.
THE MATCHUP
Tennessee Tech's offensive firepower and depth will be a focal point in both contests, especially with multiple hitters ranking among the OVC's statistical leaders. The Golden Eagles have consistently shown the ability to produce big innings, as evidenced by their 17-hit outburst over the weekend, and will look to carry that momentum into the midweek slate.
If the Golden Eagles can pair their explosive lineup with steady pitching, Tech has a strong opportunity to protect its home field and gain momentum heading back into conference play.
UP NEXT
Following the midweek matchups, Tech continues its season-long homestand with three games against Western Illinois. First pitch of the series opener is 6 p.m. CT on Friday, April 24.
