Quote:In the latest NCAA statistics (Apr. 8), Georgia State LEADS THE NATION in batting average (.342), runs (278), doubles (82) and on-base percentage (.429) and ranks second in hits (408) and runs per game (8.4).

Quote:Individually, GSU shortstop Chad Prain LEADS THE NATION with a .469 batting average and has reached base in 30 consecutive games. He also ranks second in the CAA and among the national leaders with 34 RBI.

Quote:Sophomore infielder Caden Bailey is also enjoying a very productive season with a .390 batting average and 20 RBI. He has hit safely in every game this season but three and reached base in all but one contest.

Freshman center fielder Josh Merrigan, a two-time Colonial Athletic Association Rookie of the Week, leads all CAA freshmen in batting average, hits, runs scored, RBI, total bases and stolen bases.

Junior outfielder-designated hitter Chase Raffield ranks fifth in the CAA with five home runs. He is batting .337.

Quote:Nine Panther regulars are hitting .320 or higher, including junior shortstop Chad Prain with an eye-catching .469 batting average that leads the nation. Prain leads the CAA in average and is second with 34 RBI.

This year’s GSU offense could rival the Panthers’ 2010 edition that led the nation in runs scored with 10.5 per game and ranked third with a .355 batting average.