Hunter Dietz is expected to take the mound for the Arkansas Razorbacks this weekend, Coach Dave Van Horn confirmed Monday, as the team prepares for the NCAA Baseball Tournament in Lawrence, Kansas.
The left-hander, who earned All-SEC honors this season, was struck by a 105 mph line drive off his shin during the Razorbacks’ 8-1 win over Texas in the SEC Tournament last Friday. Despite the impact, Dietz stayed in the game long enough to exit under his own power, though he was visibly limping. Van Horn said Dietz has been recovering well and will be monitored closely ahead of his next bullpen session.
“He’s doing well, so we’ll still monitor that,” Van Horn said. “When he gets his bullpen session in the next couple of days, we’ll see where we’re at there and try to figure out how we want to handle it.”
The Razorbacks (39-20) enter the regional as the No. 2 seed and will face Missouri State (34-19), a familiar name from Conference USA, at 5 p.m. Central on Friday at Hoglund Ballpark. The Razorbacks and Bears have squared off multiple times in recent years, including a memorable 2023 NCAA Regional matchup that ended with Arkansas advancing on a walk-off hit.
A Familiar Stage in Lawrence
Arkansas is no stranger to the pressure of NCAA Tournament play, especially in Lawrence. The Razorbacks have used the regional as a launching point for deep runs in past years, and this weekend’s game against Missouri State offers another opportunity to build momentum. Kansas, the No. 15 overall national seed, opens the regional against Northeastern at noon Friday.
For families planning a weekend outing, a trip to Lawrence could offer more than just a game — it’s a chance to rally behind a team with strong local ties. Several players on this year’s roster hail from communities across Northwest Arkansas, including Benton County. The Razorbacks’ success has long drawn fans from Fayetteville and surrounding areas, turning road games into unofficial home contests.
Tickets for the regional are available through the Kansas Athletics website. General admission seating is expected to go quickly, especially if Arkansas and Missouri State deliver the kind of competitive showdown their previous matchups have promised.
What to Know Before You Go
Lawrence is about a four-hour drive from Fayetteville, making it a doable road trip for families with older kids who can handle the drive. The game on Friday starts at 5 p.m., so plan to leave early to account for traffic and find parking near Hoglund Ballpark. Pack snacks and water, especially if you’re traveling with younger children — the ballpark has limited food options early in the day.
The weather in Lawrence this weekend is forecast to be warm, with temperatures in the upper 80s and clear skies, so bring hats, sunscreen, and maybe a light jacket for cooler evening temperatures. Kids who love baseball might enjoy bringing a glove in case of foul balls, though seating in the general admission areas can be a bit of a distance from the field.
While in town, consider making a day of it. Lawrence has a walkable downtown with family-friendly spots like the Lawrence Trail Hawks bike trails and the Spencer Museum of Art on the University of Kansas campus.
Arkansas baseball has built a loyal following in Northwest Arkansas, and this weekend’s regional gives fans another chance to cheer on a team that’s brought national attention to the state. Whether your family has followed the Razorbacks all season or you’re just looking for a fun outing, this game is a solid option for a weekend with the kids — and a shot at seeing Hunter Dietz back on the mound, if all goes well.
Source: NWA Democrat Gazette
