Carbondale Reporter

Southern Illinois University Carbondale's baseball team is set to start its 2025 season with a three-game series against Texas-Rio Grande Valley. The games will take place on the road and are scheduled for Friday and Saturday at 6:30 p.m. CT, and Sunday at 12 p.m. CT.

Fans can watch the series live on ESPN Plus or follow updates via live stats and Twitter @SIU_Baseball.

The Salukis, under the leadership of head coach Lance Rhodes, have shown a strong performance in previous opening weekends with a record of 13-4. The team swept Northwestern State in their opening series last year. This season, they will rely on returning players like outfielder Jordan Bach and first baseman Matt Schark for leadership. The pitching staff has undergone significant changes with only three returning pitchers from last season.

Coach Rhodes is entering his sixth year as head coach, having led the team to two consecutive 40-win seasons during his tenure. His overall record stands at 159-96, including a conference record of 58-35.

The upcoming matchup marks UTRGV's debut in the Southland Conference this year. The Vaqueros were predicted to finish fourth according to the SLC Preseason Poll, with six players named to the SLC Preseason All-Conference Team.

Historically, Southern Illinois holds an undefeated record against UTRGV, having won all four previous encounters. Notably, SIU defeated what was then known as Texas-Pan American during the 1971 NCAA Tournament before finishing as runners-up.

The Salukis' lineup includes key returner Jordan Bach who had a solid batting average last season. Redshirt senior Matt Schark also returns after missing most of last season due to injury.

On the mound for Southern Illinois this weekend will be newcomers such as Jordan Huskey from Florida Southwestern State and Meade Johnson from Heartland Community College alongside returning pitcher Al Holguin.

After facing UTRGV, Southern Illinois will play against Tennessee Tech next weekend. A home game originally planned for February 18 against UT Martin has been rescheduled to March 26 due to weather concerns in southern Illinois.

Updates about Southern Illinois baseball can be found on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, or through their mobile app available on both App Store and Google Play Store.