SMITHFIELD, R.I. – The Bryant University baseball team is gearing up for their matchup against Harvard University at Conaty Park on March 18, 2025, with first pitch scheduled for 3:00 p.m. Currently, the Bulldogs are 2-2 during their nine-game homestand, having lost two of three games to Brown over the weekend, including dropping both ends of Sunday's doubleheader.
This game will mark the first contest between Bryant and Harvard since 2011, and the Bulldogs lead the all-time series 5-0. Bryant is entering the game with expectations of improving their current season record of 7-10-1 against the Crimson, who find themselves still seeking their first victory of the season with a dismal record of 0-12.
“Gavin Noriega has been instrumental for Bryant recently, leading the team with 21 RBIs,” said the Bulldogs' coaching staff. Noriega has showcased his hitting consistency, notching 11 RBIs over his last seven games. His ability to drive home runs is something audience members will be eager to see.
The duo of Jacob Gaudreau and Noriega has also contributed significantly with Gaudreau hitting .294 and posting a solid .520 on-base percentage, which helps propel the Bulldogs’ offense. Fans are hopeful these numbers can turn the tide against Harvard.
Harvard enters this game after suffering through challenges this season, losing all of their games to date and coming off a series against Northeastern where they were unable to convert solid performances. “Harvard trails Bryant in the all-time series, 0-5 with the last meeting coming back in 2011,” reports the Harvard athletics department.
Star players for the Crimson include senior outfielder George Cooper, who leads the team with 10 RBIs, hitting .286 overall. “I believe we can turn things around,” Cooper remarked, reflecting optimism. Alongside him is Matt Giberti who has made his mark with a .296 batting average, eight hits, five runs, and impressive speed on the bases with five stolen bases, ranking second among Ivy League players.
If this game is any indicator, the Crimson will relay heavily on their sophomore right-handed pitcher Andrew Abler, who is expected to start. His performance is considerably anticipated as he faces the challenge of bringing their season back on track.
Looking at what lies beyond this matchup, both teams are slated for Ivy League play. For Harvard, they will open against Penn with three games scheduled from March 22-23, including key matchup details for fans to look forward to. Meanwhile, Bryant is eager to capitalize on this homestand, pushing for improvement and solidifying team synergy proactively during the early stages of the season.
Fernway Park will host the traditionally celebrated Baseball Beanpot on April 29, featuring other strong teams participating. Harold and Stanford, among others, are eager to face off against Bryant's skilled players.
With both teams motivated to either defend their winning streak or seek long-awaited victory, audiences can expect lively competition at Conaty Park today. The game will be available for viewing on ESPN+, with live stats accessible on Sidearm to offer continuous updates throughout the game.
This clash between two teams, their varied standings, and the chance for rivalry revival is guaranteed to keep loyal fans engaged throughout the matchup. Whether from the intense warming-up routines to crowds cheering, athletics rely on the passion shown today, which goes beyond mere statistics.
