The University of Houston baseball team will play against Rice University on April 21 as part of the Silver Glove Series, with the game scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at Reckling Park and streamed on ESPN+.
This game is significant because it continues a longstanding rivalry between Houston and Rice, which began in 1948. The two teams have played each other at least once every year since 1972, except during the COVID-modified season in 2021.
In their most recent meeting, Houston defeated Rice by a score of 13-1 in eight innings. The Cougars have won the last seven games against the Owls and could secure their fifth consecutive Silver Glove title with another victory. Houston’s record against ranked opponents this season stands at three wins and five losses, including notable victories over #2 Texas, #15 West Virginia, and #21 Wake Forest.
The probable starting pitchers for Tuesday’s game are right-handed pitcher Caden Cooper for Houston and right-handed pitcher Ty Baker for Rice. Under Head Coach Todd Whitting, who has led the team to its highest-ranked win by defeating #2 Texas earlier this season, Houston holds a record of 25-22 against Rice.
Several former Cougars are currently active on Major League Baseball rosters or in Minor League Baseball to start their seasons. Junior Tre Broussard is featured on multiple MLB Draft prospects lists this year. Senior Tyler Cox leads Big 12 hitters with a high contact percentage at the plate.
Houston faces one of its toughest schedules this season, playing many games against teams that finished last year ranked highly by RPI or participated in the NCAA Tournament.
