Despite Tuesday’s loss, Maryland baseball has won seven of its last nine games and is coming off a series win at Troy, where it pulled off a gritty comeback against the Trojans on Sunday. 

Although they only drove in three runs against West Virginia on Tuesday, Maryland had a day of “firsts” as Franklin Prichard Jr. hit his first career home run while Nate Hawton-Henley got his first NCAA hit.

Ryan Costello was named Big Ten Freshman of the Week on Monday after the Terps’ 3-1 week. In the series-clinching win on Sunday at Troy, Costello drilled two home runs, including a go-ahead shot in the ninth to put the Terps in front. Costello leads all freshmen in the nation in home runs with nine and ranks 11th in the nation among all players. 

The Maryland Terrapins (10-6) return to Bob “Turtle” Smith Stadium this weekend to open Big Ten play, hosting the Purdue Boilermakers (10-5) for a three-game series. Here’s what to expect from the visitors this weekend:

Purdue Boilermakers (10-5, 1-2 Big Ten)

Last Season

In 2025, the Purdue Boilermakers finished with a solid season in Big Ten play and remained competitive throughout the conference schedule. Purdue relied on a balanced lineup and strong pitching performances during the year. 

Although the Boilermakers had stretches of strong play, consistency was an issue late in the season. Purdue showed flashes offensively and on the mound, but struggled to maintain momentum during key conference series. 

This Season

Purdue has started the 2026 season with a 10-5 record but is 1-2 in Big Ten play. The Boilermakers have shown the ability to score runs in bunches and picked up several key wins early in the season. Most recently, Purdue dominated Milwaukee in a 17-1 thrashing on Tuesday. The Boilermakers recorded 17 hits and had multiple players drive in runs. 

Earlier in the season, Purdue also faced a difficult early schedule that included tournament games and matchups against strong opponents. The Boilermakers have shown hints of strong pitching and hitting but are still working towards consistency as they continue conference play. 

Purdue’s lone Big Ten series came against Oregon. The Boilermakers won one out of three over the Ducks, who were No. 23 in the country at the time of the series.

Hitters to Watch

One of Purdue’s most dangerous hitters early this season has been Ali Banks, who currently holds one of the team’s best batting averages at .375 and has produced at the top of the lineup. 

Sam Flores is also a major power threat for the Boilermakers. Flores leads the team in home runs and has been one of Purdue’s most productive run producers so far this season. Another important bat in the lineup is Westin Boyle, who has been one of the team’s leaders in hits and RBIs. 

Pitchers to Watch

On the mound, Purdue is led by Zach Erdman, one of the team’s top starting pitchers. Erdman has been effective early in the season with strong strikeout numbers and a low opposing batting average. His strong ability to get batters to swing and miss has made him a huge part of the rotation. 

Another key arm for Purdue is Austin Klug, who has been reliable both as a starter and out of the bullpen. Klug has picked up multiple wins this season and has helped Purdue’s pitching staff in key moments.

Probable Starters

Friday: Lance Williams vs. Zach Erdman 

Saturday: Evan Smith vs. Austin Klug 

Sunday: Jake Yeager vs. Cole Van Assen