February 23, 2008

Error Proves Costly as Yellowjackets Fall to Western Oregon

     Box Score
     Season Statistics 

LEWISTON, Idaho – An error at the plate proved to be the difference as Western Oregon defeated Montana State Billings 2-1 Saturday afternoon in the third game of the Lewis-Clark State Tournament. With the loss the Yellowjackets fall to 1-2 on the year, while WOU improves to 8-8.

The Wolves took the early lead in the second inning using a two out rally. Joe Pratt singled to shortstop and advanced on a balk by Yellowjacket hurler Steve Scott. Moments later, Eric Renander roped a ball to right field scoring Pratt for a 1-0 score.
The Yellowjackets evened the score courtesy of a leadoff double by Steve Larson. Nick Rupert then singled through the left side to drive in Larson for a 1-1 score.

WOU scored what proved to be the winning run in the fifth inning with the help of a single and a double. A fielder’s choice scored the winning run as Dylan Bruck, who hit the double, scored on a throwing error at the plate.

The Yellowjackets had a good chance to even the score as they put two runners on base in the eighth inning. Matt Schoonover singled to center and Jonathan Schlender singled through the right side with one out. WOU brought in closer Jared Neyens who shut the door, striking out Joe Via to end the threat.

MSUB went down in order in the ninth as Neyens picked up his third save of the season. Scott (0-1) took the loss going six and two thirds, allowing six hits, two runs – one earned, four walks and six strikeouts. Mike Ward picks up the win in relief and moves to 2-0 on the year.

Rupert had the Yellowjackets’ first multiple hit game of the season, going 2 for 3 with an RBI. MSUB had a season-high eight hits on the day as well.

The Yellowjackets will be back in action tomorrow at 10 a.m. against Saint Martin’s to close out the Lewis-Clark State Tournament.