by Zachary Knecht
Featured Image: Photo by Weber State Athletics
Weber State Louisville Slugger Preview
The Weber State Wildcats travel to the Golden State to participate in the Louisville Slugger Invitational from March 9 to 11. After getting swept at the Hillenbrand Invitational, WSU needs to bounce back in their trip to California.
Weber State will partake in five games throughout the tournament, going between Long Beach and Fullerton in the three days. The Wildcats will have their hands full against a tough cast of rosters, their schedule going as follows: Boston, Fullerton, San Diego State, Purdue, then Long Beach State. LBSU is the only upcoming opponent to sport a losing record, so it’s going to be a challenge for WSU to come by wins in Cali.
Thursday 11 am MST
Boston versus Weber State
The Wildcats start things off against the Boston University Terriers. The Terriers have been a force to be reckoned with in their early campaign, starting the season off 16-5. Boston University is scorching hot, winning their previous three games by a combined score of 25-4 and dominating in every aspect as of late. After losing their last six, this is one of the last teams Weber State would want to face, but a win against a challenging opponent may be exactly what the doctor ordered to get the Wildcats back in the swing of things.
Thursday 4 pm MST
Weber State at Fullerton
WSU continues its first day in California, going to Fullerton to battle its namesake. Given the Titans’ history this year, this game will either result in a close battle or a blowout in favor of the Wildcats. Fullerton is an even 11-11 on the year, having dropped their last three contests. The Titans were outscored 21-4 in said losses and are looking to rekindle the magic they had in their first trio of tournament appearances. The travel puts Weber State at a disadvantage, but this roster is capable of battling any team, anywhere.
Friday 3 pm MST
San Diego State versus Weber State
The San Diego State Aztecs are another team that is sure to give the Wildcats problems in their matchup. The Aztecs started the season 14-7, going 3-2 at the San Diego Classic before adding a win against Minnesota Tuesday. San Diego State’s offense is more than competent offensively, notably blowing out fellow Big Sky member Montana 16-0 in a five-inning contest. Whoever takes the mound for Weber State needs to be prepared because their sole game Friday can get ugly and fast.
Saturday 11 am MST
Purdue versus Weber State
The Purdue Boilermakers are as streaky as they come in 2023. In their previous nine games, they went on a three-game winning streak, then a three-game losing streak, followed by another three-game winning streak. If that trend continues, the Wildcats would walk away with the victory. All jokes aside, the Boilermakers tend to play in close games. They have only won by five or more runs three times despite their 11-6 record, making this anyone’s game against WSU. Though Purdue’s bats most certainly come alive, they have seldom scored big, exceeding the ten-run mark only once this season.
Saturday 1:30 pm MST
Weber State at Long Beach State
As mentioned previously, LBSU is the only roster Weber State faces this weekend to possess a losing record. At 7-13, Long Beach State has found itself in a slump, going 2-6 in their last eight contests and struggling to put together runs. Five times this season, LBSU was held scoreless, and four times they only mustered one run. They are 2-3 at home, though, and the advantage may swing in their direction with their lack of travel. If there is any game the Wildcats are most likely to take over the three days, it is this one.
Weber State’s goal needs to be to get back in the win column, and they will have opportunities in California. Their roster has so much potential, and they have ample chances to showcase it over the weekends.
Socials
Stay up-to-date on the latest in Weber State Softball here at The Hive Sports, and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.