Bears set for ASUN Tournament showdown with top-seeded Stetson

Central Arkansas is gearing up for a pivotal matchup as they open the 2025 ASUN Baseball Championship against the tournament host and top-seeded Stetson Hatters.

The two teams will clash in the third game of Day 1 at 3 p.m. on Tuesday at Stetson’s Melching Field at Conrad Park in DeLand, Florida.

Tournament Format and Stakes

This year’s ASUN Championship features a double-elimination format, with the title game scheduled for noon on Sunday, May 25.

The winner of the UCA-Stetson contest will advance to face the victor of Florida Gulf Coast vs. Lipscomb, while the losers will meet in an elimination game the following day.

Stetson enters as the top seed from the Graphite Division, boasting a 37-19 overall record and a dominant 24-6 mark in conference play.

UCA, the fourth seed from the Gold Division, finished the regular season at 19-33, 12-18 in ASUN action, and has battled through injuries all year.

Historic Matchup: Stetson’s Edge

The Hatters have dominated the all-time series, holding a 6-0 record against the Bears.

Stetson swept UCA at home to close last season and also won three games in Conway in 2023.

Despite the lopsided history, UCA is determined to reverse the trend.

Pitching Duel: Christensen vs. Gonzalez

UCA will send junior right-hander Charlie Christensen (4-4) to the mound.

Christensen leads the Bears with 72 strikeouts in 15 appearances and brings valuable postseason experience, having struck out five in last year’s ASUN tournament win over Jacksonville.

“Charlie gives us a chance every time he takes the ball,” said UCA head coach Nick Harlan. “He’s been our workhorse, and we’ll lean on his experience in this environment.”

Stetson counters with senior lefty Jonathan Gonzalez, recently named ASUN Pitcher of the Year.

Gonzalez posted an 8-2 record with a 2.18 ERA, holding opponents to a .192 average across 82.2 innings.

His season included a complete game shutout against FGCU, showcasing his ability to dominate on the mound.

Key Players to Watch

UCA Bears

Charlie Christensen: Preseason All-ASUN selection, leads the team in strikeouts, and anchors a pitching staff that has weathered injuries.

Zeb Allen: Sophomore outfielder and All-ASUN third team pick, Allen led the Bears in batting average and provides speed and defense.

Bryce Cermenelli: Senior third baseman and All-ASUN third team selection, Cermenelli had a strong season before a knee injury ended his campaign early.

Stetson Hatters:

Lorenzo Meola: The ASUN Defensive Player of the Year and a Brooks Wallace Award watch list shortstop, Meola is a force on both sides of the ball. He hit .340 with 8 home runs and dazzled defensively, including a highlight-reel catch that made SportsCenter’s Top 10.

Jonathan Gonzalez: ASUN Pitcher of the Year, leads a deep Stetson staff.

Coaches’ Perspectives

Stetson coach Steve Trimper, aiming for his third ASUN title with the Hatters, emphasized the importance of home-field advantage: “Playing at Melching Field in front of our fans gives us a real boost. But we know UCA is a tough, gritty team that won’t back down”.

UCA’s Nick Harlan reflected on his team’s resilience: “We’ve dealt with adversity all season, but our guys never quit. The tournament is a new opportunity, and we’re excited for the challenge”.

Path to the Championship

UCA’s road to the semifinals last year included three straight wins before falling in a tight 6-5 contest to Kennesaw State after playing four games in four days. With several returnees from that run, including Christensen and Allen, the Bears hope to draw on that experience for another deep postseason push.

Stetson, meanwhile, is focused on defending its 2024 title and securing another NCAA Regional berth. The Hatters’ combination of elite pitching, defense, and timely hitting makes them a formidable opponent.

How to Watch and Follow

Fans can catch the action live on The Bear 91.3 and ESPN+. Tickets for the tournament are available through the Stetson Athletics ticket office.