Memphis Baseball Looks to Upset Wichita State in Home Series

Tigers aim to snap Shockers' recent dominance in American Conference matchup

Mar. 26, 2026 at 10:39pm

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The University of Memphis baseball team is set to host Wichita State for a three-game weekend series, looking to build momentum after an upset win over No. 18 Ole Miss earlier this week. Memphis will face a tough challenge against the Shockers, who have dominated the series in recent years, sweeping the Tigers last season and knocking them out of conference tournament contention the past two seasons.

Why it matters

This series represents an important opportunity for Memphis to pick up a signature conference win and establish itself as a contender in the American Athletic Conference. The Tigers have struggled to a 7-16 record so far this season, but the upset of Ole Miss showed they are capable of beating top competition when they play their best baseball.

The details

Memphis will send its regular weekend rotation to the mound, with right-hander Will Howell, left-hander David Case, and a yet-to-be-determined Sunday starter. Wichita State will counter with right-handers Matthew Cuccias and Brady Hamilton. At the plate, the Tigers have been led by outfielder Cade Hitson, center fielder Michael Gupton, and first baseman Tyler Harrington, while the Shockers boast a powerful offense paced by Jayson Jones, Owen Washburn, and Jaden Gustafson.

  • The series opener is scheduled for Friday, March 26 at 6:05 p.m.
  • Saturday's game will start at 2:05 p.m.
  • The series finale is set for Sunday at 1:05 p.m.

The players

Cade Hitson

Memphis right fielder who went 2-for-4 with a two-run home run in the upset of Ole Miss.

Michael Gupton

Memphis center fielder and the team's leading home run hitter with seven on the season.

Tyler Harrington

Memphis first baseman who delivered a key two-RBI single in the win over Ole Miss.

Jayson Jones

Wichita State's leading hitter with 40 hits, 8 home runs, and 33 RBIs.

Owen Washburn

Wichita State outfielder with 37 hits, 10 doubles, and 31 RBIs.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

This series represents an important opportunity for Memphis to pick up a signature conference win and establish itself as a contender in the American Athletic Conference. The Tigers have struggled to a 7-16 record so far this season, but the upset of Ole Miss showed they are capable of beating top competition when they play their best baseball.