Next for the Diamond Hogs are Ohio Valley Conference representers, Eastern Illinois.
The Diamond Hogs lead the all-time series 2-32. They beat EIU in the first meeting back in 1984. The Panthers got their first win over the Hogs in 1988 but wouldn’t win another game until 2016.
E. Wayne said this is a series the Razorbacks should sweep, but that was before he watched the four-game roller coaster the Hogs were on. After allowing 18 runs, scoring 18 runs, and struggling in the home opener, Eastern Illinois isn’t just an easy opponent.
Sweep Hammer by Jonny Hanscom
Ky Hampton & Jon Hanscom combined for the shutout on the mound 🅾️ pic.twitter.com/mznNZlwlRR
— EIU Baseball (@EIU_Baseball) February 19, 2023
EIU started their season off with a 3-0 series sweep of Florida A&M in Tallahassee. It marked the first time since 1988 that the Panthers have swept a team during the opening weekend of the NCAA season.
A three-game sweep for the Diamond Hogs would better indicate how the team will look in the ladder months. This is a chance for the team to find momentum. Dominate performances are a must;
Hagen Smith is back on the mound for the first time since he opened the season against Texas. Smith threw five scoreless innings and eight strikeouts but did not end up with the victory. The Panthers are only batting .262 and have an on-base percentage of .396. Smith could find a rhythm against this lineup.
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