The West Virginia University baseball team will host No. 23 University of Central Florida for a three-game series at Kendrick Family Ballpark, beginning Friday, Apr. 2. The matchup features two top teams in the Big 12 Conference, with first pitch scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Friday, followed by games on Saturday and Sunday.
This series is significant as both teams are competing for the top spot in the conference standings. West Virginia currently holds a record of 20-5 overall and is 7-2 in Big 12 play after recent victories over Arizona State and Arizona.
Fans attending the games can expect several promotions throughout the weekend. Friday will feature Mario Night with a themed poster giveaway and happy hour specials. Saturday’s game includes Bark at the Park, allowing fans to bring their dogs, along with a pet bag dispenser giveaway for early arrivals. Sunday’s finale will offer throwback jersey keychains and activities such as kids running the bases, postgame autographs, and an egg hunt.
The WVU Rifle team will be recognized during Friday’s game for their national championship win earlier this year. Team members will sign autographs before throwing out the ceremonial first pitch, and fans can take photos with the championship trophy or purchase related merchandise at the ballpark.
On-field matchups include senior Paul Schoenfeld leading West Virginia with a .422 batting average and sophomore Gavin Kelly contributing significantly both offensively and defensively; Kelly has been named to multiple midseason All-America lists as well as to an award watch list recognizing top catchers nationally. For UCF, John Smith III leads offensively while pitcher Matt Sauser currently leads NCAA Division I baseball in earned run average but missed his last start due to undisclosed reasons.
Reserved parking procedures are in effect on Friday and Saturday near Kendrick Family Ballpark, while ADA-accessible spaces remain available on a limited basis near Gate A and next to the Clubhouse.
