Minnesota Gophers Host Milwaukee Panthers for Midweek Baseball Showdown
Minnesota, MN – The University of Minnesota baseball team (4-5 overall; 0-0 Big Ten) is ready to face off against the Milwaukee Panthers (1-9 overall; 0-0 Horizon League) on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at U.S. Bank Stadium. First pitch is set for 6 p.m. CT, with the game streamed live on Big Ten +.
Last weekend, the Gophers secured their first series victory of the season against the Arizona State Sun Devils, winning the first two games of the series before falling short 8-7 in the final game. The opener went to extra innings, where senior Josh Fitzgerald hit the decisive solo home run during the top of the tenth inning before Eli Sundquist closed the game with a bases-loaded strikeout. Game two featured Jake Perry's impressive pinch-hit grand slam during the eighth inning, driving Minnesota to a 6-4 victory. The Gophers showcased their offensive potential, hitting five home runs, including four during the eighth inning of game three against Arizona State.
Looking at the Panthers, they are struggling this season. With only one win against nine losses, Milwaukee's performance as they travel to Minneapolis has raised concerns among fans. Freshman Tate Schmidt has emerged as the standout player for the Panthers, leading the team's offense with a .385 batting average through the first 10 games.
The history between these two teams dates back to their first meeting in 1995. They last met at U.S. Bank Stadium in 2023, where the Panthers came out on top with a 3-0 victory. This past win gives Milwaukee added confidence, as they approach their showdown against Minnesota today.
The Gophers have been demonstrating remarkable power at the plate, racking up 17 home runs so far this season. Offensively, nine different Gophers have left the yard this season, with Drew Berkland leading the team with five homers, showing how diverse and potent their batting lineup has become.
Minnesota's head coach commented, "This midweek matchup is important for both teams, as each looks to build momentum for upcoming conference play. We are focused on improving, and every game counts as we head toward Big Ten competition next week." With the excitement of the Big Ten season looming, both teams recognize the significance of this game.
The Gophers will be shifting gears quickly as they are scheduled to open their Big Ten play over the weekend against Purdue from March 7-9. Fans will be eager to see how the team performs as they transition from non-conference to conference play.
This matchup against the Panthers marks another opportunity for Minnesota to solidify its standing as they prepare for the challenges within the Big Ten. With notable performances expected, all eyes will be on U.S. Bank Stadium tonight.