Kennesaw State (18-19, 7-11 CUSA) at Western Kentucky (22-20, 7-11 CUSA)
Location: Bowling Green, Ky. | Nick Denes Field
Friday, April 24 at 7 p.m. (ESPN+)
Saturday, April 25 at 5 p.m. (ESPN+)
Sunday, April 26 at 2 p.m. (ESPN+)
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KENNESAW, Ga. - Kennesaw State baseball travels to Western Kentucky for another key Conference USA series as the Owls look to better their place in the league standings. Both teams enter the weekend at 7-11 in CUSA action, sitting in a four-way tie for seventh place, battling to earn a spot in the CUSA Baseball Championship.
Probable Starters
- Friday: RHP Cooper McMullen (2-3, 5.15 ERA) vs. LHP Aaron Robertson (1-2, 4.30 ERA)
- Saturday: RHP Nolan Sliver (0-0, 4.99 ERA) vs. RHP Gavin Perry (4-1, 4.75 ERA)
- Sunday: TBA vs. TBA
Series Notes
Kennesaw State took the first-ever regular season series between the two programs, winning two-of-three in Marietta last season. The Hilltoppers eliminated the Owls from the CUSA Baseball Championship with a 10-2 win in the Semifinal round to even the all-time series at two.
What's at Stake
Both KSU and WKU enter Friday's contest at 7-11 in Conference USA play, sitting in a four-way tie for seventh in the league standings. With only the top nine teams advancing to the CUSA Baseball Championship, the next two weekends against WKU and Sam Houston (also 7-11 in CUSA play) are critical for the Owls, who face a challenging finish with series against projected NCAA Tournament teams in Jax State and Missouri State.
Battle Tested
Kennesaw State has played one of the nation's most challenging schedules, with nine games against ranked opponents. The Owls enter the weekend with the 82nd-toughest schedule in the country and the 26th-ranked non-conference strength of schedule.
Joining the Century Club
Three Kennesaw State pitchers – Harry Cain, Daniel Powell and Nolan Sliver – have surpassed 100 career strikeouts this season, reaching a key milestone in their careers.
Renfroe Rounding into Form
Junior Ryan Renfroe has turned in four consecutive scoreless outings, dating back to March 31. The right-handed reliever now owns a 2.38 ERA (3 ER/11.1 IP) and has limited opposing hitters to a .108 batting average on the year. During his span of spotless work, Renfroe has allowed one hit and four walks while striking out six in 7.0 innings of action.
Turnin' Two
The Black and Gold have turned 37 double plays on the season, ranking 13th in the nation and first in CUSA. KSU's 1.00 twin-killings per game leads the conference and ranks fifth in the country.
Milestone Watch
Jackson Chirello hit the 51st double of his career on April 14 against Mercer, ranking third in Kennesaw State's Division I history. The D-I era record is 57 doubles set by Donovan Cash from 2022 to 2025, while the all-time program mark is 69 by Clint Watters from 2001 to 2004. Chris Cole enters Friday with 56 career stolen bases, second in KSU's Division I era and third all-time.
The Champions Fund
The Champions Fund is a newly created, 100% tax deductible, philanthropic opportunity to contribute strategic revenue to Kennesaw State Athletics, with the goal of strengthening our ability to recruit and retain top-tier talent in this new era of collegiate athletics. Contributions to the Champions Fund will help aid in funding student-athlete recruitment and retention, as well as helping the Owls provide competitive excellence through investments in coaching, travel and facilities. The fund will also give an elevated student-athlete experience, including enhanced academic, nutrition, wellness and leadership programs. Donate to the Champions Fund here and help us support our Kennesaw State Owls.
