SEARCY – The 20th-ranked Harding baseball team returns to action this weekend for a three-game series against Arkansas-Monticello. The teams will play a doubleheader Saturday beginning at noon and a single game Sunday at 1 p.m. at Jerry Moore Field.

Harding and Arkansas-Monticello are headed in opposite directions entering the series that is crucial for both teams.

Harding is 26-5 overall and 5-1 in GSC play. The Bisons have won 10 of their last 11 games and are currently tied for second with Delta State in the GSC West Division, one game behind leader Arkansas Tech. Harding needs a successful series to maintain its national ranking and stay among the conference leaders.

Arkansas-Monticello enters with a 9-15 overall record and an 0-6 mark in the GSC West. The Boll Weevils are looking to climb back into the conference race. Arkansas-Monticello started the season 9-2 but has lost 13 straight after losing its leading hitter, junior outfielder Wayne Hawkins, to a season-ending injury in the 12th game of the season.

Harding leads the all-time series 77-60 and holds a 19-12 advantage in GSC games since 2000.

Probable Pitching Matchups

Game 1 – Ryan Modglin, Harding (3-0, 2.63) vs. Reece Cross, Arkansas-Monticello (3-3, 6.41)

Game 2 – Brodie Brumley, Harding (2-2, 4.68) vs. Brandon Miller, Arkansas-Monticello (1-4, 6.61)

Game 3 – Logan Holthaus, Harding (3-0, 3.12) vs. Eddie Smith, Arkansas-Monticello (3-3, 9.62)