Bat Cats Break Out of Slump, Take Down Wichita State 10–6

The Bat Cats bounced back from an 18-inning scoreless drought with a 10–6 victory over Wichita State last night. Thirteen hits powered the 10-run performance, alongside strong production from the bottom of the lineup. Cadyn Karl, Chandler Murray, and Shea McGahan came through to combine for four hits, three runs scored, four RBIs, two doubles, five walks, and two stolen bases.

Karl, who became an everyday starter around the Houston series, has really settled into his role. His batting average is up to .339, and he now has eight stolen bases on the season, which ranks second on the team. He is also third on the team in OPS at 1.112 (second if you exclude Nick English, who has only appeared in 12 games this season). I'm not sure what the situation is with Robby Bolin, but he has not appeared in a game since March 13 against Houston—right around the time Karl stepped into that everyday role, primarily in center field.

That offensive production helped give Tanner Duke, the Wildcat starting pitcher, some breathing room against a talented Shocker offense. Duke earned the win, allowing 10 hits and five runs while walking just one batter and striking out seven. Robert Fortenberry and Tazwell Butler came in relief to close out the game, with Butler earning his third save of the season.

K-State is back in action Friday for a weekend series against Oklahoma State. Ethan Lund has been OSU’s Game 1 starter in recent series matchups. Lund started the season very strong but has begun to give up more hits in Big 12 play. However, his batting average against is still just .189, showing his potential to limit opposing offenses. Mario Pesca is the typical Game 2 starter and has shown the ability to go deeper into games during conference play, pitching at least six innings in three of his four Big 12 starts.

K-State’s offense will need to show up to support its pitchers this weekend, as the Cowboys have demonstrated the ability to score in bunches, putting up 10 or more runs in half of their Big 12 outings.

It is expected to be a rainy weekend, so we’ll see how that impacts the schedule. For now, first pitches are set for 6 p.m., 4 p.m., and 1 p.m. on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.