Box Score
Updated Season Stats
A gutsy pitching performance from senior right hander Brennan Russell and an RBI bunt single from junior outfielder Kade Van Norman was enough for the Wildcats to hold on to a 1-0 win in game one on Friday night over the Mississippi College.
With Russell cruising through the first seven innings, the Wildcats had their first opportunity to break the scoreless tie in the bottom of the fourth inning with runners on the corners and one out.
However, a deep flyball to centerfield by Wildcat designated hitter Matt Scott was snared by Hunter Bolin in centerfield, which prevented Mark Riendeau from tagging up and scoring from third base.
But the Wildcat bats were tough all game against Choctaw ace Brooks Fortenberry and were able to score the eventual game-winning run in the bottom of the fifth when left fielder Kade Van Norman layed down a perfect bunt down the first base line to score Taylor Beavers from third.
The LC bullpen would take over from there as Luke Pinkard would throw the final 1.2 innings, including a strikeout of MC second baseman Trey Pirkle to end the game and give LC the 1-0 win.
The win over the red hot Choctaws moved LC's season record to 11-17 overall and 10-12 in ASC play. The two teams will square off again tomorrow with a doubleheader beginning at noon. Senior RHP Madison Lachney (4-4, 1.93 ERA) is expected to start the first game for the Wildcats while junior RHP Brand Bignar(2-0, 2.05 ERA) is slated to go in the series finale.