Murray State University Athletics
Murray State
UT Martin
Baseball to Host UT Martin in Homestand Opener
5/4/2026 5:01:00 PM | Baseball
MURRAY, Ky. – Murray State baseball is set to host UT Martin in the second midweek game of 2026 against the Skyhawks.
Last time out, the Racers traveled to Martin on Feb. 24 and defeated UTM 7-5 for their first road win of the season. Parker Airhart was the hero of the Racers and Skyhawks' first matchup, driving in four runs and hitting a three-run homer along with a ninth-inning RBI single to secure the win.
Murray State will look to begin its four-game homestand with a strong start after a winless weekend on the road at Purdue. The Racers have had strong performances at home since the completion of the first phase of renovations at Johnny Reagan Field, posting a 5-3 record in Murray.
Murray State's offense has been led by senior Luke Mistone, whose 47 RBI on the year rank second in the Missouri Valley Conference. Graduate student Colby Ott has also been a consistent force in the batter's box, posting a .349 batting average to rank fifth in the MVC.
MSU has posted a 5-6 record in midweek matchups so far, looking to build on last week's home win over Memphis. The Racers and Skyhawks have an extensive history, with Murray State dominating the all-time series with an 85-37 overall record against UT Martin.
The Skyhawks bring a 23-24 overall record into Tuesday, sitting at seventh in the Ohio Valley Conference standings. UT Martin has won its last two games, taking its weekend series over Western Illinois.
UT Martin has struggled in road games throughout the 2026 season, posting a 6-13 record away from home. The Skyhawks are led by senior TJ Grines, who leads the nation with 56 stolen bases while being caught just four times. Grines' mark is 16 bags ahead of No. 2 in the nation.
Murray State will give LHP Ethan Lyke the ball to start Tuesday's game, while the Skyhawks are set to start RHP Dean McCalla.
Lyke was stellar in his midweek start against Memphis, striking out five in 3.2 innings of work. McCalla is slated for his fourth start of the season, bringing a 13.02 ERA to Reagan Field.
Murray State and UT Martin are scheduled for a noon first pitch at Johnny Reagan Field, with the game available to stream on ESPN+.
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