The Iowa Hawkeye baseball team closes out the first half of the Big Ten race by opening a three game series at home tonight (Friday night) against league leading Nebraska. The Hawkeyes are 4-5 in conference play while the Huskers are 7-2.

That’s Iowa coach Rick Heller. The Hawkeye hitters face a tough challenge in the opener. Husker left Emmett Olson is 5-1 and opposing hitters are batting only .181 against him.

Heller hopes the home field is an advantage this weekend. The Hawkeyes are 12-2 at Banks Field.