PINE BLUFF, Arkansas - Despite picking up seven hits in the ballgame and out-hitting Illinois State, UAPB was unable to push across more runs, as the Golden Lions lost to the Redbirds 8-2 Friday.
Calvin McClendon (1-1) started and took the loss on the mound for UAPB (6-3). Jaxson Lucas was a bright spot out of the bullpen, going 3.2 innings, surrendering two runs, on one hit, walking none and striking out two.
At the plate, the Golden Lions were led by Edwin DeLaCruz, who went 1-for-3 on the day with a double and a walk. Carlos Rodriguez put together a solid performance at the plate as well, going 1-for-2 with two walks. Lawrence "Q" Noble also helped out for UAPB, putting together two hits in four trips to the plate.
HOW IT HAPPENED
The Golden Lions put runs on the scoreboard first, starting the scoring in the second inning. UAPB got an RBI single from JaKobi Jackson, scoring Rodriguez from second base.
The Golden Lions lost the lead they built in the second, but got back on the board in the eighth trailing 7-1. Drew Cates came across to score the lone run of the inning for UAPB, which tightened the Redbirds lead to 7-2. The Golden Lions were unable to get any closer, as Illinois State added one run to their tally on the way to an 8-2 final.
GAME NOTES
» UAPB's highest scoring inning was the eighth, when it pushed one run across.
» The Golden Lions out-hit the Redbirds at a 7-6 clip.
» UAPB pitchers limited Illinois State to just 1-for-15 (.067) with runners in scoring position.
» UAPB pitchers faced 42 Illinois State hitters in the game, allowing eight ground balls and 10 fly balls while striking out eight.
» The Golden Lions drew four walks from Illinois State pitching.
» DeLaCruz led the Golden Lions at the plate, going 1-for-3 with a double.
#1TEAM1ROAR
