UA home schedule starts versus N.M.

The Wildcats (3-1) will play host to the Lobos (0-0) in a three game series at Frank Sancet Field, starting today at 2:30 p.m.

Arizona will go with the same game plan that it had against Hawaii-Hilo, which saw them outscore the Vulcans, 31-12, while their pitchers had their way with the Vulcans' batters.

"We are trying to prepare the same way," Arizona head coach Jerry Stitt said.

Stitt added that the team has worked hard on their defense. This is due to the fact that in Arizona's only defeat in the series, 10-4 last Sunday, they allowed seven unearned runs off of five errors. Stitt added that he also wants the team to sustain its intensity and try to be a little more efficient throughout the series.

The pitching staff is a large factor in why the Wildcats are off to their strong start. In the season opener sophomore right-hander Darrell Hussman (1-0) pitched six shutout innings, allowed only three hits and struck out seven. Hussman will get the start today.

"He did what a number one pitcher was supposed to do," assistant coach Victor Solis said. "He threw strikes and dominated."

As opposed to a staff that had a team ERA of 7.40 last year, Stitt said that he feels that this year's pitchers are more focused, and gives credit to new pitching coach Bill Kinneberg for having the staff well prepared.

Sophomore left-hander Rob Shabansky (1-0) will take the mound tomorrow at 1 p.m., and sophomore left-hander James Johnson (1-0) will pitch the Sunday contest, also at 1 p.m. The Wildcats will hold a youth clinic from 9:30 -10:30 before tomorrow's game. Games are free for UA students.