Cougars Split Double Header Conference Opener

Cleveland State baseball split their double header conference opener this afternoon against Dyersburg State Community College.

In game one, Freshman Cooper Casteel earned the victory pitching a complete game four hitter allowing one run striking out 12 while walking five.

"Cooper gave us a great outing," head baseball coach Mike Policastro said.  "Our offense did a good job when we needed to."

Freshman first baseman Riley Orr singled driving in two runs in the first inning bringing sophomore second baseman Jaylen Jones and sophomore centerfielder Bryce Burkey to the plate.

Freshman designated hitter Cannon Stafford hit a two-run homer in the third inning bringing home Burkey for the second time.  Orr also scored in the third on a bases loaded balk by Eagles pitcher Connor Burt.

"Riley's first inning single driving in two runs was a big momentum lift," Policastro said.  "Cannon Stafford's two run home run in the third gave us needed separation."

Dyersburg state's Chris Alvarez hit a pinch-hit home run in the seventh inning, but Casteel shutdown any chance of an Eagles comeback as the Cougars took game one 5-1.

In game two Dyersburg State's Anthony Figueroa earned the victory pitching a complete game two hit shutout striking out eight while walking two.

"In game two we could not get anything going off their left hander, he was in control all game," Policastro said.  "Griffin Orr and Ben Norton threw well enough to keep us in the game."

Eagles centerfielder Andy Matin hit a three run homer in the third inning driving in the only runs of the ballgame.

The rubber match in this three game series is scheduled for tomorrow at noon at Cougar field.

"I thought we played well all day", Policastro said.  "Game three is a big game for both teams to see who wins the series."