Today is the 4th of March, 2026, and excitement is in the air as the St. Cloud State Baseball team (7-4, 5-1 NSIC) heads to Winter Haven, Florida, for the RussMatt Central Florida Invitational. This annual event promises to be a thrilling showcase of college baseball, with the Huskies set to play eight non-conference games over just eight days. Fans can look forward to an action-packed schedule, featuring doubleheaders on both the opening and closing days, March 4 and March 11, respectively, along with single games on the intervening days.

Here’s a quick glance at the matchups:

  • Game 1: vs. Davis & Elkins (W.V.) – 4th March, 11:30 a.m. CT, Chain of Lakes Park #3
  • Game 2: vs. Saginaw Valley State (MI) – 4th March, 3:00 p.m. CT, Chain of Lakes Park #3
  • Game 3: vs. Barry (FL) – 5th March, 2:30 p.m. CT, Chain of Lakes Park #2
  • Game 4: vs. Ashland (OH) – 7th March, 5:00 p.m. CT, Northeast Regional Park #2
  • Game 5: vs. California (PA) – 8th March, 1:00 p.m. CT, Chain of Lakes Park #2
  • Game 6: vs. Wayne State (MI) – 10th March, 12:00 p.m. CT, Chain of Lakes Park #3
  • Game 7: vs. Davenport (MI) – 11th March, 9:00 a.m. CT, Chain of Lakes Park #3
  • Game 8: vs. Minnesota Duluth – 11th March, 12:30 p.m. CT, Chain of Lakes Park #3

Player Highlights

The Huskies have been firing on all cylinders, especially with standout performances from key players. Redshirt-senior Liam Moreno has been named NSIC Player of the Week, thanks to an impressive .625 batting average (10 of 16) during a four-game sweep against Northern State. Moreno’s stats include a double, six RBIs, eight runs, and five stolen bases, which significantly boosted his batting average from .200 to .389.

In addition, freshman Ryan Cahoon is making waves this season, leading the NSIC with a remarkable .517 batting average (15 of 29). Cahoon has also contributed with a home run, eight RBIs, 11 runs, and eight walks. His impressive performance against Wayne State, where he hit .556 (5 of 9) with an OPS of 1.577, showcases his potential.

Pitching Prospects

The pitching staff is equally impressive. Sophomore A.J. Price achieved his first collegiate win with a solid 5.0 innings, allowing just one earned run and striking out three batters. Freshman Brayden Simones debuted successfully, securing a victory with four strikeouts in 1.2 innings of work. Leading the team in strikeouts is senior Kahler Key, boasting an ERA of 2.03 and 19 strikeouts so far this season. Hayden Frank also had a standout performance, delivering six scoreless innings with two strikeouts in his best start yet.

For further updates on the St. Cloud State Baseball team and their journey in Florida, you can visit their official site at SCSUHuskies.com and follow them on social media.

This tournament not only provides a platform for the Huskies to showcase their talent but also serves as an important bonding experience for the team as they gear up for the rest of the season. With a mix of seasoned veterans and fresh talent, St. Cloud State is poised to make a significant impact in Florida. Fans back home in St. Cloud will be cheering them on as they embark on this exciting journey!