The Ole Miss Rebels are riding high after a statement weekend, taking down No. 9 Texas A&M in impressive fashion. Now, they turn their attention to a crucial midweek matchup against UT Martin—the final tune-up before a pivotal road series against No. 18 Alabama. For the Rebels, this is more than just a Tuesday night game; it’s about building momentum and keeping postseason hopes alive.
The Skyhawks come to Oxford with a 25-26 record and a No. 237 RPI ranking, but don’t let those numbers fool you. UT Martin’s offense is fueled by a dynamic duo: TJ Grines and TJ Dunsford. Both are hitting over .350, with Grines showcasing a rare blend of power (nine homers) and speed (62 stolen bases, 20 doubles). Dunsford leads the team in home runs (11) and RBIs (62). Oddly enough, both have identical walk (17) and hit-by-pitch (7) totals—a quirky stat that adds to their mystique.
On the mound, however, the Skyhawks have struggled. No starting pitcher boasts an ERA under 4.40, which spells trouble against a Rebels lineup that’s been heating up. Expect the bats to have a field day, with strong beer showers and potential flash flooding in right field—a playful nod to the offensive explosion that could be in store.
For Ole Miss, this game is about securing their 10th midweek win and reaching 35 total victories. But the stakes are higher: a loss here could jeopardize their chances of hosting an NCAA Regional. The Rebels need to win the series in Tuscaloosa, but first, they must take care of business at Swayze Field.
Keep an eye on Judd Utermark and Tristan Bissetta, both sitting at 19 home runs and poised to cross the 200 at-bat mark. It’s almost a certainty that at least one—if not both—will reach the 20-homer milestone in this game. This matchup has all the makings of an early ending, which is a good thing given the weather forecast. No need to risk injuries with bigger games ahead.
Catch the action on SEC Network at 6:00 PM CT on Tuesday, May 12, or head to Swayze Field for a beautiful May night of college baseball. Either way, this is a game you won’t want to miss.