Harvard's baseball team, confident after its victory over Boston University, the outfit which triumphed over the Crimson last year, faces its stiffest early season encounter on the diamond of Soldiers Field this afternoon at 3 o'clock, when the hard-hitting Providence Friars travel to Cambridge.

Not since 1928 have these two teams met, and backed by its record of 14 wins and only three losses last season, Providence is certain to force the Crimson to keep on its toes every minute of the time if the game is to be won by Harvard.

The final warmup practice was held on Soldiers Field yesterday afternoon and in the absence of Coach Fred Mitchell who is out with a back ailment, Captain Eddie Loughlin was in charge of his teammates most of the time. Dolph Samborski was kept busy with the Jayvees who were working out in preparation for their opening game today with Andover. Mitchell is expected to be on hand today since his back has come along nicely under treatment.

Paul deGive, hockey captain, Jayvee football quarterback and sensation of last year's pitching staff who amazed everybody by his twirling in the Yale game last spring is due to get the call on the mound today. If he hasn't hit his stride yet and seems to be getting in difficulty, Captain Loughlin will probably be sent in to relieve him. Ken Hayes substituted for Fitzpatrick at second base yesterday afternoon.