Mississippi Valley State University’s baseball team collected 14 hits, including seven extra-base hits, in the second game of a doubleheader against Tennessee-Martin on Friday. Despite hitting a home run to start the ninth inning and cutting the deficit to one run, Mississippi Valley was unable to bring in the tying run, resulting in losses in both games. Tennessee-Martin won the first game 12-1 and took the second game 8-7.
The Skyhawks now lead the all-time series 9-0. Mississippi Valley’s record moves to 2-9 for the season, while Tennessee-Martin improves to 6-7.
In Game 1, Jace Jones led Mississippi Valley with two singles in three at-bats. Ty Burns added an RBI with a sacrifice fly and a single. Kendall Brookins contributed by drawing two walks and stealing a base. On the mound, Matthew Cuzco pitched one scoreless inning with two strikeouts, while Camden Farmer retired all three batters he faced.
Game 2 saw increased offensive production from Mississippi Valley. Brookins went 3-for-4 with two runs scored, a walk, a stolen base, and an RBI. Eric Williams hit two doubles—one of which drove in a run—while Chris Soeder, Stephen Landaz, and Israel Ramos each hit doubles as well. Aiden Meyer became the first player on his team this year to record multiple home runs in a season after hitting a solo homerun in the ninth inning; Jace Jones also homered for his third career round-tripper.
Pitcher Clint Lafferty threw four innings without allowing any walks or striking out batters but gave up just one run on three hits during his relief appearance.
The teams are scheduled to play again Saturday at Skyhawk Field in Martin, Tennessee; however, weather conditions may affect start time.
CJ Bilbrey is head coach for Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils Men’s Baseball.
