-and-
Eight-run fourth inning too much to overcome.
Source: NMSU Athletics
By Michael Navarrette
Photo: Courtesy
LAS CRUCES, N.M. – NM State’s early momentum wasn’t enough to hold off No. 17 Dallas Baptist’s big fourth inning, as the Aggies fell 14-7 Friday night at Presley Askew Field.
The Aggies (14-12, 2-2 CUSA) jumped out to a 1-0 lead in the first inning when Brandon Forrester reached base and came around to score. NM State kept pace early, adding runs in the second and third innings to maintain a 4-3 advantage heading into the fourth.
However, the fourth inning proved costly for NM State. Dallas Baptist (17-8, 3-1 CUSA) erupted for eight runs in the frame, fueled by a three-run homer from Chayton Krauss. The Patriots extended their lead to 11-4 after their fourth time at the plate, a deficit the Aggies were unable to overcome.
Bryce Campbell added an RBI in the fifth to keep the Aggies battling, while Mitch Namie provided a highlight for NM State, belting a two-run homer in the seventh to cut into the deficit. Brandon Forrester also chipped in to the offensive effort with two hits and three runs scored.
On the mound, Jack Turner (2-2) was charged with the loss after allowing 10 earned runs in 3.2 innings. Relievers Carson Timmons, Jake Carvajal, and Cade Shumard combined to limit the damage over the final five frames, but the early hole proved too deep.
NUMBERS OF NOTE
- Brandon Forrester matched his career high in runs scored with three.
- Mitch Namie recorded his second home run of the season.
- Cade Shumard tallied his second strikeout in his second appearance of the season.
- Carson Timmons posted his career-high in innings pitched, going 2.1 innings in relief.
- Sheehan O’Connor notched the first triple of his Division I career.
- The Aggies fall to 2-12 all-time against Dallas Baptist and drop to 9-6 in home games this season.
- The loss also marks just the third time that NM State has lost while scoring six or more runs as they were previously 12-2 when doing so.
NM State will return to Presley Askew Field on Saturday evening for the second game of the series against DBU. First pitch for Saturday’s contest is slated for 4 p.m.
For complete coverage of NM State Baseball, visit NMStateSports.com – the official home of Aggie athletics – and follow us on Twitter (@NMStateBaseball), Instagram (@NMStateBaseball) and like us on Facebook (NM State Baseball).
