The Pittsburg State Gorillas baseball team is gearing up to host the Rogers State Hillcats in a crucial three-game series starting April 24, which will significantly impact the MIAA regular season title. Currently, the Gorillas sit at 34-8 overall and 21-8 in the conference, ranked No. 9 by the NCBWA and No. 7 by the ABCA. They are coming off a six-game winning streak, including a recent victory over Missouri Southern State. In contrast, the Hillcats lead the conference with a 37-7 record and are ranked No. 6/7 nationally. The series kicks off at Al Ortolani Field, with Senior Day festivities slated for Saturday.

By the Numbers
  • Pittsburg State leads the MIAA in numerous offensive categories, including batting average (.356) and runs scored (492).
  • Dagen Brewer has the MIAA's top stats in batting average (.459), home runs (21), and RBIs (87).
Yes, But

The Gorillas’ strong offensive stats must be measured against the Hillcats’ pitching prowess, which leads the MIAA with a team ERA of 4.27, providing a potential challenge for Pittsburg State’s lineup.

State of Play
  • The Gorillas are currently third in the MIAA standings, behind Rogers State and another competitor.
  • Both teams are in strong form, with each winning six of their last seven games.
What's Next

The outcome of this series will likely determine the MIAA champion as the regular season approaches its conclusion. Both teams will be looking to solidify their rankings and momentum heading into the postseason.

Bottom Line

Fans should expect an intense showdown as the Gorillas and Hillcats compete for the top spot in the MIAA, with both teams showcasing standout players and robust statistics that promise a thrilling series.