Troy Goes for Title at USA

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Troy holds a half-a-game lead over FIU going into the final series of the season – three games on the road with in-state rival South Alabama.

First pitch for the opener is set for 6 p.m. on Thursday evening at Stanky Field.

The Trojans (38-15, 19-8) are aiming to win their second Sun Belt regular season championship, and first since 2006. Troy has led the Sun Belt standings since the first weekend, but has seen its lead drop to just a half game thanks to a tie by FIU and Arkansas State last Sunday.

FIU hosts Florida Atlantic for a three-game series this weekend.

Troy is led offensively by shortstop Adam Bryant (nine home runs, 58 RBI) and third baseman Tyler Hannah (.376 avg, 27 doubles). Thursday night's starting pitcher, RHP Tyler Ray, has been an anchor for the Trojans on the mound this season.

The junior from Hoover is tied for the national lead with 11 wins. He also leads the Sun Belt with a 1.89 ERA. He will be opposed in the opener by USA'S Garrett Harris (7-3, 3.28 ERA).

South Alabama (28-24, 14-13) relies heavily on catcher Brent Tanner (nine home runs, 50 RBI) and outfielder Nolan Earley (.343 avg, 19 doubles).

The Trojans are scheduled to start freshman LHP Jimmy Hodgskin (2-6, 4.23 ERA) on Friday opposite right-hander Dustin Crenshaw (7-1, 3.47 ERA) from South Alabama. Troy's Saturday starter is yet to be announced, but USA will throw RHP Carlton Paris (3-4, 4.08 ERA).

In the first meeting earlier this season at Riddle-Pace Field, Troy took the series with wins on Friday and Sunday. The Trojans are just 23-32 all-time against South Alabama, but hold a 15-12 mark in head coach Bobby Pierce's tenure.

Barry McKnight will bring you all the action from the diamond on the flagship station of Troy athletics WTBF 94.7 FM in Troy and Brundidge as well as online. Coverage begins 15 minutes prior to first pitch.

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