MSU Baseball Looks to Extend Win Streak Against USF

Mavericks aim to apply pressure and limit mistakes in key conference matchup

Mar. 31, 2026 at 9:24am

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A fragmented, geometric painting in bold primary colors representing the competitive spirit and tactical complexity of a college baseball game between two rival teams.A cubist interpretation of the high-stakes conference matchup between Minnesota State University and the University of Sioux Falls, capturing the dynamic energy and strategic tension of the game.Mankato Today

The Minnesota State University baseball team, currently on a seven-game winning streak, will face off against the University of Sioux Falls Cougars this afternoon at The Birdcage in Sioux Falls. The Mavericks, ranked second in the NSIC conference with an 11-1 record, are looking to continue their strong play and position themselves for the upcoming conference tournament.

Why it matters

This conference matchup is crucial for both teams as they jockey for position in the NSIC standings. The Mavericks are aiming to secure a top seed in the conference tournament, which is the path to the NCAA tournament, while the Cougars are looking to improve their conference record and tournament standing.

The details

Minnesota State head coach Matt Magers, in his 18th season, has emphasized the importance of strong pitching, getting on base, and playing clean defense as keys to the Mavericks' success this season. The team will look to its ace, Sam George, as well as leadoff hitter Jake Berkland to set the tone against the Cougars.

  • The game is scheduled for this afternoon, March 31, 2026.
  • The Mavericks are currently on a seven-game winning streak following a sweep of Concordia-St. Paul last weekend.
  • This is the Mavericks' last away game series before their first home game the following week.

The players

Matt Magers

The 18th-year head coach of the Minnesota State baseball team, who has over 25 years of experience with the program as both a pitching coach and head coach.

Sam George

The Mavericks' ace pitcher, known for his ability to throw multiple pitches for strikes in all counts and give the team a strong chance to win when he's on the mound.

Jake Berkland

The Mavericks' leadoff hitter and starting shortstop, who sets the tone for the team with his energy, speed, and baseball IQ.

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What they’re saying

“Every conference game matters because only the top eight teams make the conference tournament, and that tournament is the path to the NCAA tournament. Our goal is to put ourselves in the best position to win every time we take the field.”

— Matt Magers, Head Coach, Minnesota State Baseball

“Our focus starts on the mound with throwing strikes, getting outs, and executing pitches in all counts. Offensively, we want to get on base, apply pressure, and create scoring opportunities, and defensively we need to play clean baseball by catching and throwing it at a high level and limiting mistakes.”

— Matt Magers, Head Coach, Minnesota State Baseball

What’s next

Following the matchup against the University of Sioux Falls, the Mavericks will face the Bemidji Beavers in a three-game series on Friday, April 4, 2026. This will be the Mavericks' last away game series before their first home game the following week.

The takeaway

The Mavericks' strong start to the season, led by veteran coach Matt Magers and anchored by standout players like Sam George and Jake Berkland, has them well-positioned to secure a top seed in the NSIC conference tournament and make a push for the NCAA tournament. Their focus on fundamentals like pitching, defense, and creating scoring opportunities will be key as they look to extend their winning streak against the Cougars.