Photo by Darius Horton / MTSU Sidelines
On Saturday, the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (5-5) played in their second game of the weekend in the Tri-Star Classic. This time around, they were poised to take on the Bucs of East Tennessee State University (4-4). The Raiders used a much-needed offensive surge to take a 16-8 victory over the Bucs.
Offense comes alive to help break losing streak
The Raiders’ bats were stagnant in the Friday match-up against Memphis, however that would not be the case this time around.
Three players hit home runs to set the tone for the day’s dominating performance. Senior Aaron Aucker hit his second blast of the season to go along with 4 RBIs. Freshman Myles Christian and junior Austin Dennis each crushed home runs as well..
The Bucs simply did not have an answer for the offensive firepower that the Raiders brought.
Pitching finds grove despite high run count
Starting pitcher Carson Lester lasted for the first three innings of the game, allowing three runs on three hits and striking out four batters.
Junior Blake Stansberry, who received credit for the win, tossed a shut-out during his time on the mound. He would then be replaced by Freshman John Dowless.
Dowless allow four runs on three hits during his inning on the mound, before he was relieved by junior Carter Bair. He closed out the game by pitching the final three innings. He allowed only one run on two hits to close out the game.
With the offense effectively putting the game out of reach, this was a game that Head Coach Jim McGuire could put in his less experienced pitchers to give them some game time.
What’s next?
The Raiders will close out the Tri-Star Classic on Sunday against the University of Tennessee Volunteers at 3 p.m.
To contact Sports Editor Rusty Ellis, email sports@mtsusidelines.com.
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