Bobcats Can't Complete the Sweep Against the Lumberjacks

Texas State was unable to get the series sweep on Sunday as they were defeated in a close game 7-4 against the Lumberjacks of Stephen F. Austin. The Bobcats however did win the series 2-1 as they run ruled the Jacks 10-0 on Saturday and defeated them on Friday 7-4.

The Bobcats jumped on the Jacks early as lead-off man Tyler Sibley was hit by a pitch, and proceeded to steal second. Then Paul Goldschmidt walked and stole second as he and Sibley pulled off the double steal. Kyle Livingstone then came up to bat and hit a double in the gap to left field scoring Sibley and Goldschmidt.

In the second inning though the Jacks got those 2 runs back as Brian Borski, who started for the Cats, struck out Justin Long for the first out of the inning. He then gave up 2 singles to Brian Ferguson and Jeffrey Kello who eventually scored on a single from Zach Gardner.

In the bottom half of the second inning Laurn Randall hit a single and then scored when Tyler Sibley hit a triple to left field to take the lead.

In the third Borski shut down the Jacks, striking out 2 and getting Bo Coffman to strike out to end the inning.

The Cats continued to score in the third as Paul Goldschmidt led off with a double and scored on a sacrifice fly from Kyle Kubitza; which ended the day for Lumberjack starter Jared Schrom.

Brian Borski shut down the Jacks through the fourth and fifth innings going three up and three down.

In the sixth inning the Jacks got revenge as Sean Meyers led off the inning with a double and scored on a single by Brian Ferguson. Jeffrey Kello singled right after that to put him on base for Joe Staley. Staley then proceeded to hit a three run homerun to give the Jack the lead and ending Borski’s day.

The Bobcat offense was unable to rally and score after the sixth inning as Lumberjack pitchers Chris Court, Alex Moshier, and Richard Folmer shutdown Bobcat Batters the rest of the game.

The Jacks scored one more run in the top of the ninth to give them a 7-4 lead which they would hold on to giving them the victory.

The Bobcats record goes to 8-4 in Conference play and 16-9 overall. The Lumberjacks go to 3-7 in conference play and 8-16 overall. The Bobcats will take on the Baylor Bears on Tuesday in Waco. The Bobcats will be looking to knock off another Big 12 program.

TJ Ladusky- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Tritz Only GIves Up Three Hits on the Mound = Win For Cats

The Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks fell to the Bobcats today in Bobcat territory, when the Bobcats 10 run ruled the Lumberjacks in the 7th inning. The Bobcats are now 8-3 in the SLC while the Lumberjacks fall to 2-8.

The Bobcats offense did not waste anytime and scored one run in the 1st inning with Bret Atwood hitting a double into left field and an RBI single from Paul Goldschmidt. The Bobcats were able to score 4 runs at the bottom of the second inning and 2 at the bottom of the 3rd. Bobcat Kyle Livingstone hit his first home run in his Bobcat career to left field giving Bobcat fans some excitement at the bottom of the 3rd. The only inning the Bobcats did not score was the bottom of the fourth.

The Lumberjack offense was no match for Bobcat pitcher Zach Tritz. Lumberjacks Justin Long, Brian Ferguson, and Jarid Scarafiotti were the only players who were able to make a hit off of Tritz. Lumberjack pitcher Erich Lehmann started off for the Lumberjacks pitching two innings but allowing 5 runs from 6 hits and 5 walks. Jermey Tamez replaced Lehmann but only pitched 1 inning after allowing 2 runs from 2 hits. Jason West then took over the game pitching two innings allowing 2 runs from 3 hits but did not walk a Bobcat. Ryan Priest finished out the game for the Lumberjacks by pitching 1 innings and going 1 for 1.

The Lumberjack pitching once again did not meet it's much talked about hype but the Bobcat offense did. The short 7 inning game improved the Bobcats record and gave Zach Tritz the win for the game. The Bobcats are expected to close out the 3 game series tomorrow afternoon with the first pitch starting at 1 p.m.

Hillary Till- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Baseball Continues Winning Ways

The Bobcats defeated the Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks on Friday night with a final score of 7-4. This was the first game of the 3 game series the Bobcats are hosting against the Lumberjacks this weekend. The Bobcats currently stand 7-3 in the SLC conference while the Lumberjacks are 2-7.

The Lumberjacks were the first to score with an RBI groundout by SFA third baseman Sean Meyers. However the Bobcats answered right back at the bottom of the first with 3 runs. Leading the Bobcat offense to a victory was Spenser Dennis, who was 3 for 4 with a single RBI. After making four runs at the bottom of the third inning, the Bobcats were unable to score the remainder of the game. The Lumberjacks made a brief comeback at the top of the fourth inning with one run and 2 runs at the top of the fifth with Lumberjack Jefferey Kello hitting a home run into left field bringing in 2 runs.

The widley anticipated Lumberjack pitching was a let down at the game with starting pitcher Erik Gregersen only pitching 2.1 innings and allowing 5 walks. Zack Taylor pitched the longest for the Lumberjacks with 3.1 innings and allowing only 1 walk. Travis Herrelson and Alex Moshier also pitched for the Lumberjacks in Friday's game.

Kane Hoolbrooks was able to keep a steady hand and a cool head with pitching 8 innings, earning him the win. Hoolbrooks is now 5-0 for this season, and is a force to be reckoned with this season in the SLC Conference. The Bobcats will continue the Lumberjack series tomorrow with a 2 p.m. game at Bobcat Field.

Hillary Till- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Texas State Dominates, Takes Lead in SLC

Texas State came into the back end of their doubleheader with Central Arkansas with the momentum from a 4-2 victory minutes earlier at the Bobcat softball complex, and proceeded to turn in an even more dominant performance with a 7-2 victory over the visiting Sugar Bears.

One could tell the players felt a bit of an extra jolt right at the beginning of the game coming out of the last win, and the Bobcats took little time in knocking UCA off balance. Starting pitcher Katie Garnett tore through the top of the 1st in record time with two strikeouts and a lineout to first, and the Bobcat offense proceeded to take no prisoners as Texas State quickly knocked in four runs. Unfortunately, a chance to further rattle the Sugar Bears’ composure was dashed as Kristina Tello was called out on what appeared to be a single on her part for batter interference. The bases would have been loaded, and given UCA starting pitcher Katie McGregor’s lack of control in her windup, it wouldn’t have been rash to assume that Texas State could have brought a few more baserunners home.

After the initial confusion brought about by the 10-minute conference the umpires had to determine the baserunner interference call, it seemed that the offenses for both teams went completely frigid for a couple of innings. Granted, UCA was having trouble getting things going throughout the day, but Texas State’s streakiness shone through as the only low points of the day as Alex Newton and McKenzie Baack continued their offensive slumps. Things got somewhat interesting in the top of the 4th as Paige Burke knocked in a run for Central Arkansas on an RBI single, but Leah Boatright seemingly took the wind out of UCA’s sails in the following set as she smacked a 3-run homer right into the Texas State bullpen to bring the score to 7-1.

Despite another desperate attempt by UCA at the top of the 5th where one run was knocked home, you could feel that the Sugar Bears were flustered and frustrated by missed opportunities. UCA left a total of 6 runners on base, and even when the game was close, one likely never felt that the game was really in doubt. Texas State’s superior athleticism and teamwork repeatedly shined through on the field, and it resulted in a sense that the Bobcats had an iron grip on the momentum throughout the entire contest despite any attempts UCA made to come back.

Texas State improves to 21-11, 13-4 SLC, and the victory also vaulted the Bobcats to the top of the Southland standings. The squad will play their last game of the UCA series as they attempt to up the series record against their conference rivals to 9-0 all time. You can listen to the game on 89.9 KTSW or txstatebobcats.com, or visit the new, shiny softball complex and cheer on the Bobcats!

Will Butler- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Bobcats Outlast Sugar Bears 4-2 with Back to Back Homers in First Game of Doubleheader

The Texas State Bobcats Softball Team Defeated the Central Arkansas Sugar Bears on Saturday.

Texas State Pitcher Chandler Hall was a dominant force in the circle for the Cats and allowed only 2 runs total. In the bottom of the second inning 1B Leah Boatright got a hit and scored a run after 3B Jenna Emery got an RBI double. But the real meat of the Bobcat offense happened in the fourth inning. After Leah Boatright got a hit, 2B Ryan Kos performed a sacrifice bunt to move Boatright to second. Then Jenna Emery smashed a 2-run homer over the left field wall, bouncing over the home bullpen.

Not to be outdone, next batter up Pitcher Chandler Hall smashed another homer, this time the ball went over the right field wall for the back-to-back homers that proved to be the difference in the game.

The Bobcats looked excellent on all phases of the game, hitting, pitching, and defense. Even with star players Alex Newton, and McKenzie Baack struggling at the plate, the other Bobcats picked up the slack and responded. The Sugar Bears are no push-over team and played a very intense inter-conference game. That being said the Cats really wanted to start the series on a good note and performed that way. Chandler Hall would finish the game leaving many pitching options available for the second game of the day, namely Katie Garnett.

The Sugar Bears were forced to use multiple pitchers which would place a burden on them for pitching options in Game 2. The All-Time Series after the game was Texas State winning all 7 of the games ever played against Central Arkansas. The game put the Bobcats at 20-11 and 12-4 in Southland Conference play just before playing the second game of the doubleheader.

Casey Torres- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Who Needs Pitching When You Can Score 20 Runs?

The bats were put to good use tonight but the Bobcats still fell.

The Baylor Bears came into San Marcos and out scored the Bobcats 22-17 but even that doesn’t tell the entire story. The freshman pitcher Matt Steiner took the mound for the first start of his career and went to work. He took out the first three Baylor batters three up three down. The problems started in the next inning. Steiner only made it for two more outs as five bears crossed the plate although only two of them were earned runs. He was replaced by freshman pitcher Jeff McVaney. McVaney did a great job getting out of the second inning but in the third he gave up six earned runs on four hits and was quickly replaced by Tyler Brundridge but the scoring didn’t stop there.

Brundridge allowed three more runs before the third inning ended. In the bottom of the third inning freshman left fielder, Tyler Sibley, hit a solo home run finally getting the Bobcats on the board. Even still, the Bears put three more runs in the top of the fourth and the Bobcats were down 17-1. It was a daunting task for anyone, but the Bobcat bats were up to the challenge.

The bottom of the fourth started out with Paul Goldschmidt reaching first on an error and things started rolling from there. Spencer Dennis hit his second double of the day knocking in Goldschmidt and advancing Cody Gambill to third base. Three singles in a row scored three runs and there were still no outs until Jason Martinson grounded into a fielder’s choice as the sixths batter in the inning. The bases loaded up again for the Bobcats and a run was walked in before Cody Gambill came up again and knocked a two RBI single. Then Dennis came back up and got his second RBI of the inning on his second hit of the inning. The Bobcats loaded the bases again before getting two quick outs to end the inning. Overall eleven runs were scored in the inning on seven hits. Texas State went from down 16 to down by five.

Garret Carruth came to the mound and shut down the Bears offense only allowing one hit and the hot Bobcat bats came back up. A walk and three singles later and the Bobcats had two more runs and no outs. One line out and a double play and the inning was over. After another quick half inning the Bobcats came back to the plate in the bottom of the sixth down only three runs.

Ben Theriot singled to left field and up stepped the new Bobcat shortstop Jason Martinson. So far Martinson has been a .184 hitter on the season but a booming shot the left field cleared the fence with room the spare. The Bobcats were down by only one run.

After a two run spot was put on the board by Baylor in the top of the seventh, Michael Russo came in to stop the bleeding. He did a good job in the seventh holding the Bears to those two runs but gave up two in the eighth. Russo came out and one more run scored giving the Bears a 22-16 lead. The Bobcats managed to get one run in the bottom of the eighth inning but the third double play of the game once again ended the Bobcats rally.

Both sides of the ninth inning came and went as a three up three down and that is how the game finished. A steady stream of freshman pitchers on both sides coupled with five home runs kept the bats flowing. Overall it was a pretty solid defensive night for both teams with only four errors on 47 hits and three double plays.

The Bobcats fall to 10-7 on the season and face off against Lamar in a three game series for their first away game in almost three weeks. The next home game is against Prairie View A&M on Tuesday March 24^th and you can listen to that game on 89.9 KTSW.

Dalton Sweat- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Baseball Blows Game in 9th and 10th Innings

The Bobcats lost in memorable fashion Sunday afternoon to the Bearkats of Sam Houston State. After only giving up four runs in the first eight innings, the Bobcats blew a 5-run lead in the ninth frame to send the game to extra innings where they eventually fell apart.

The Bobcats were first on the scoreboard when designated hitter Spenser Dennis singled to left field to bring in Bobcats Atwood and Sibley. Bobcats scored again when Dennis' sub Kieth Prestridge singled to LF to bring in Laurn Randell. The score read 3-2 Cats.

After 2 scoreless innings by starting pitcher Brian Borski, the Bobcats padded the lead in the fourth inning when second baseman Adam Witek hit a RBI single. The score was 5-1 Cats when the Bearkats loaded the bases in the fifth. Bearkats Braden Riley and Nick Zaleski both singled for a run each to bring the score to 5-3.

Texas State was only one out away from ending the game when the Bobcats simply ran out of gas. With two runners on, Riley singled again to load the bases for Zaleski. The Sam Houston slugger doubled for 2 runs. Next, batting in the clean-up, Seth Hammock doubled to bring in both Riley and Zaleski. The Bearkats needed 5 runs and 5 runs is what they mustered.

Bobcats first baseman Goldshmidt opened the bottom of the ninth with a double, but the next three batters either popped up or grounded out. They were going into extra innings.

The Bobcats walked the lead-off batter to start out the tenth inning. After getting Pugh to ground out, Texas State's pitching tanked. The inning quickly became one of the lowest points of this 2009 season. This is how it all went down...

With Knight on second base and 1 out....

1) Ty Lundy was hit by a Bobcat fastball. PITCHER CHANGE
2) SS Mooney walks on four-strait balls. PITCHER CHANGE
3) With bases loaded, CF J. Kiethley clears bases with 3-RBI triple.
4) Riley doubles to bring in Kiethley. PITCHER CHANGE

Then things got bad to worse....

5) 2-run homerun by N. Zaleski. PITCHER CHANGE
6) Solo homerun by Seth Hammock. PITCH CHANGE
7) Solo homerun by Bearkat catcher Wyatt.

Texas State managed a run in the bottom of the tenth but the game was already over. After only giving up 4 runs by Texas State pitchers, the bullpen ran thin when it mattered most. Texas State gave up a total of 13 runs in the final 2 frames. The tenth inning alone lasted 30 minutes. The lack of quality relief pitching did Texas State in. The Bobcat relief pitchers combined for 13 runs off of 12 hits in only 4.2 innings of work. The final score was 17-10 for the Bearkats of Sam Houston. Sam also took the series 2-1.

Texas State will look to redeem themselves against fourth-ranked Baylor Bears Wednesday night at 6:30. You can listen to all the action on 89.9 KTSW.

Colby Howell- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Bobcat Softball Cruises To Weekend Sweep

The Bobcats beat the Southeastern Louisiana Lady Lions 11-1 in game 2 of a Sunday double-header. It was a great team effort by the Bobcats. 15 Texas State players had at least 1 hit or 1 run.

Leading the way for the Bobcat offense was senior short stop Alex Newton. Newton went 3 for 4 with 3 rbi's and 1 run. Bobcat starting pitcher, Chandler Hall, had a great game as well. Hall went 2 for 3 with 1 rbi and 1 run. She also earned the win by going 4 innings allowing 1 unearned run on 3 hits; she added 6 strike outs and 1 walk. The Lady Lion starting pitcher, Bailey Zievert, earned the loss. Zievert pitched 3.1 innings allowing 8 earned runs on 10 hits; she added 6 walks and 1 strikeout.

The game was close through 3 innings, however, the 4th inning would spell defeat for the Lady Lions. The Bobcats brought 13 batters to the plate in the bottom of the 4th, scoring 9 runs. The lead was 11-1 going into the top of the 5th inning. Bobcat pitcher, Elizabeth Dennis, came in to close out the game. The Lady Lions didn't get a run on the board in the 5th inning, so the game was called due to the 10-run-rule. It was Texas State's 3rd straight 10-run-rule win, all against the Lady Lions.

The win brings Texas State to 18-9 overall and 10-2 in the Southland Conference. The loss drops Southeastern Louisiana to 8-15 overall and 0-9 in Southland Conference play.

Up next for Bobcat Softball is a trip to the home of SLC foe Nicholls State. Action starts Tueday, March 17 at 5:00 p.m. The Bobcats will return home to host Central Arkansas on Saturday, March 21, first pitch is slated for 1:00 p.m. Catch all the action on 89.9 KTSW.

Thomas Courtney- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Garnett and Crew Get Game One of Double-Header Victory

The Bobcat Softball team looked as dominant as Saturday's performance defeating the Southeastern Louisiana Lady Lions 10-0 in game one of the double-header action on Sunday.

Things started off pretty easy on the mound for Sr. Katie Garnett who put down the first three batters she faced in the first inning. Garnett has been one of the two rotating Bobcat pitchers who has been confusing hitters left and right with the stellar play all season long. With Garnett on the mound fans could see the confidence the Bobcat players had in their starting pitcher.

Along with the good defense, the Bobcats scored in Taylor Hall off of a Leah Boatright single to get the Cats started early in the bottom of the first. Throughout the first three innings Garnett was able to keep minimal runners on the bases for the Lady Lions by going through only 11 batters in three innings worth of work.

Meanwhile, the Bobcat offense started to pick up where it left off from the first game against the Lady Lions by adding two runs in the bottom of the second sparked by a lead off home run from Chandler Hall, who played left field in game one.

While Hall was helping out her fellow pitcher, the rest of the Cats still had not caught their groove. Garnett shut most of the Lady Lions hitters down going into the bottom of the fourth inning where the runs started to pile on for the Bobcats.

The bottom of the fourth inning was good for the Cats on Sunday starting with a Chandler Hall single that was followed by a Jenna Emery triple that started the on-slot in the inning. The game was at 4-0 with the bases loaded when Leah Boatright came to plate and smacked a ball into the outfield scoring three runners while she scooted to third base for a 3 RBI triple. The game was out of reach and the Bobcats helped themselves by adding three more runs to make the score 10-0.

The Lions couldn't add any runs in the top of the fifth inning ending game one of the Sunday double-header with a ten-run-ruled victory. Since Saturday's game ended in a ten-run-ruled game, one could wonder just how many times the Lady Lions had seen the sixth and seventh inning?

Leah Boatright finished game one 2-3 with 4 RBI's and 1 run scored while fellow infielder Jenna Emery went 2-2 with 1 RBI and 2 runs scored notching a double and triple the two times she came up to bat. Katie Garnett finished the game with 5 innings pitched while only giving up 4 hits and facing only 19 batters.

With the dominant pitching by Garnett and the stellar offense that the Bobcat line-up provided in the game, it was nearly impossible for the Lady Lions to win the game. Although the Lady Lions have not won a game in SLC play, the Cats still showed why they are the front-running contender to battle it out for a Southland Conference Championship.

With game one of the double-header under wraps, the Cats looked to complete the series sweep in the final game of the weekend.

James McNeal- KTSW Sports Director/Blog Editor

It Only Takes 5... Innings That Is

The Texas State Softball Team demolished the Southeastern Louisiana Lady Lions 10-1 on Saturday afternoon. The Bobcats improve to 16-9, 8-2 SLC, while the Lady Lions fall to 8-13, 0-7 SLC.

It was an ugly dreary day Saturday, but the Bobcats were all smiles after a 10-1 beatdown of the Lady Lions that forced the game to end early in the 5th inning. Junior 1B Leah Boatright finished the day 3 for 3 with 3 runs and had a game changing homer in the second. Senior 2B Ryan Kos also went 3 for 3 with 3 runs as well while 3B Jenna Emery went 2 for 2 and scored a run. Senior Shorstop Alex Newton was 2 for 2 and Sophomore McKenzie Baack was 2 for 3 with 2 runs. Alex Newton, Leah Boatright, and Jenna Emery each stole a base for Texas State.

The highlight of the game had to be the Boatright homer just over the home bullpen near the railroad tracks. This brought the entire crowd of 400+ to their feet.
The negative highlight of the game had to be a double play when a Bobcat batter hit the ball right to the Lions 1B who was coincidentally standing on the base while a Bobcat was about to run to second. Immediate two outs, even the Lady Lion looked surprised.

Freshman Pitcher Chandler Hall was cool and calm on the mound, as usual. Times when the bases were loaded early in the game didn't seem to phase her as the 10-1 final score can attest. After pitching four innings she was replaced by Elizabeth Dennis and then Chandler Hall moved to left field because she has the unique ability to be able to play any position.

Overall the Cats did very good on defense, hitting, and pitching. Both teams did however leave many left on base. Southeastern Louisiana left 7 on base and Texas state left 6, keeping in mind that this was just a half-game. The Southeastern Louisiana Lions have probably looked better on sunnier days. Their were a lot of errors on the field committed by the Lady Lions resulting in a lot of unearned bases for the Cats.

One can expect the Lady Lions to come out with fight Sunday for the double header at Bobcat Field. The Cats are dealing with a team that is still seeking their first Southland Conference win (0-7 SLC), and like a wounded animal fighting for its life, the Lions will fight tooth and claw in order to get that first win.

If the Bobcats can sweep Southeastern Louisiana this will really be a testament to their talent and level of play this season. Expect a very good couple of games Sunday! You can listen to all the action on 89.9 KTSW starting with game one at 10:00 a.m.

Casey Torres- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Bobcats Battle Back To Even Up Double-Header

The Texas State Bobcats defeated the Sam Houston State Bearkats 6-3 in game 2 of the double-header on Saturday. The Bobcats were looking for some revenge as they lost a close first game 7-5.

The Bobcats were led by their starting pitcher Sr. Kane Holbrooks. Holbrooks came into the game with 1.57 era and was 3-0. On Saturday Holbrooks pitched 4 scoreless innings before giving up 2 runs in the 5^th inning when Nick Zaleski hit a triple to score Justin Keithley and Braeden Riley.

The Bobcat offense was slow out of the gate, but got started in the 4^th inning when Bret Atwood laid down a perfect bunt for an infield single. Then Paul Goldschmidt, Jr. first baseman, hit a monster homerun over the left field wall to give the Bobcats a 2-0 lead.

Holbrooks pitched 7 2/3s inning before being replaced by Lance Loftin. Holbrooks struck out 5 Bearkat batters and only walked one in his impressive start.

After the 4^th inning the Bobcats continued to score runs as they batted around in the 5^th inning scoring 4 runs increasing their lead to 6-2. The rally started with the lead-off man Adam Witek who got a single and eventually scored.

The Bearkats did not allow anymore Bobcat runs the rest of the game after Chris Shelton came into the game and stopped the Bobcat offense.

Lance Loftin maintained the lead for the Bobcat’s by only allowing one more run in the top of the 9^th.

Seth Hammock popped out to Tyler Sibley ending the game and sealing the Bearkat’s fate in game 2. The Bobcats improve their record to 4-1 in conference play, and look to win on Sunday giving them two wins in this three game homestand.

TJ Ladusky- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Bearkats Take Game One in Double-Header

After the cancellation of Fridays game due to the weather, Texas State
hosted the Bearkats of Sam Houston State for a double-header on Saturday.

Game one started off with scoring on both sides; Sam Houston got on the board first with a sac fly to deep center to bring in a run and to take the lead by a score of 1-0. The Bobcats answered right back when Texas State first baseman Paul Goldschmidt blasted a Jacob Howard fastball to deep left field for a solo homerun.

The action picked back up in the third when Bearkat Seth Hammock doubled to bring in 2 runs for Sam Houston. But Texas State answered once again when Ty Sibley led off with a single. Then Bret Atwood layed a beautiful bunt down the third baseline to advance the runner and beat out the throw to first as well. Goldschmidt came to the plate next but was walked to load the bases. Keith Prestridge hit a deep sacrifice fly to bring in Sibley from third.

In a bizarre moment of confusion, Atwood found himself in a pickle along the thirdbase line, but SHSU pitcher Jacob Howard bobbled the throw and Atwood came in to take the lead by a score of 4-3. The next 3 innings were a pitching and defensive battle. After 7 runs were scored in the first 3 innings by both squads, Sam and Texas State exchanged a handful of "1-2-3" innings.

Bobcat Bret Atwood reached base on a walk in the seventh with only one out. Slugger Goldschmidt padded the lead when he doubled down the right-field line to bring Atwood in. But the eighth inning is when it all fell apart for Texas State. Starting pitch Zach Tritz found himself in a hole when a fielders-choice grounder advanced Bearkat runners to second and third base. Head coach Ty Harrington saw enough of Tritz to bring in reliever Tyler Brundridge. On Brundridge's first pitch, Sam Houston catcher Mark Wyatt swung and sent the ball over the left-field wall with a three-run homer.

Down by a score of 7-5, Texas State had it's last chance to mount a comeback. Pinch hitter Kyle Kubitza walked to start the inning off right. Next batter was right fielder Laurn Randell who struck-out. Sibley and Atwood both had singles to load the bases with big Paul "Bunyon" Goldshmidt at the plate.

However, Goldschmidt popped up to second base for the secon out. With 2 outs and the bases loaded, designated hitter Kieth Prestridge popped up to left field to end the game.

The final score was 7-5 for the visiting Sam Houston Bearkats. Luckily for the Bobcats, it was a double-header and could still have revenge for the day.....

Colby Howell- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Bobcat Basketball One and Done

As soon as the Southland Conference Tournament started for the Bobcats it seemed it was over. Texas State fell in the first round of the tournament 80-75 to the Nicholls State Colonels.

Brandon Bush started out the game with what has been his signature all season, the “and one.” After a nice lay up in the lane with the foul Bush sank the first of many free throws in the ball game.

It was about this time that the Bobcats were in the dark and I mean that literally rather than figuratively. All the lights in the stadium flashed off in the middle of play. The emergency lights clicked on and everyone was ok as the game continued. It was sufficient lighting but certainly not the bright glow one is used to from a basketball court. Eventually all the facilities came back to life but over the next five minutes of play the teams would go at it with about 70% lighting.

With the lights the Bobcats turned things on going on a 10-3 run where John Rybak added a steal and five points to make the score 13-5. Rybak continued to be the Bobcats offense and with 8:13 left in the half he had scored ten of the teams 20 points.

20 of the final 30 points scored in the first half collectively were scored at the free throw line generally keeping the Bobcats lead in take. A few runs were made by the Colonels but every one of them was answered. At half time the score was 34-26 with Texas State leading. The Colonels were a perfect eleven for eleven from the free throw line while the Bobcats were ten of eleven. The difference in the ball game so far was Texas State was 4-11 from beyond the arc while Nicholls State was 1-10. Also, the Bobcats were +5 in the turnover margin.

Things were looking good and Bobcat fans were starting to get a bit excited. Then the Colonels First Team All-SLC Forward Ryan Bathie started out the second half on a 5-0 run himself and fans started to get worried. This is also when the Bobcats entire first team began fouling in masses. Brent Benson and Bush did their best to keep the lead scoring eleven out of the Bobcats 17 points to start out the half. With 13:09 left in the game the Cats led 51-45 and went cold for the next three minutes. Nicholls State started charging back to take the lead for the first time since the score was 2-0. They led 52-51.

From the ten minute mark the Colonels would make an average of two free throws per minute and shoot three free throws a minute. The lead quickly increased to six points and it was a deficit the Cats would have a hard time coming back from. After a last minute charge the Bobcats brought the final score to within five points but none the less the season was over.

At one point Nicholls State was 23-25 from the free throw line and ended up 35-43 from the line. There were 71 free throws and 58 fouls called in the ball game. Besides the excellent free throw shooting the Colonels also shot 61% from the floor in the second half and 57% from beyond the arc.

After leading at halftime and looking like the aggressors it became even more painful to watch the Bobcats go home on the first day. The four seniors walked off the court having given the Bobcats their first try at an SLC tournament since 2004. The senior lines were as follows: Brandon Bush finished with 20 points and 9 rebounds, Brent Benson with 15 points, Corey Jefferson with 11 points, and Dylan Moseley with 2 points 5 rebounds and 4 assists.

Tune in again next season to listen Bobcat Basketball on 89.9 KTSW.

Dalton Sweat- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Horned Frogs Hop Bobcats After Big Sixth Inning

Texas State baseball hosted Texas Christian University on a humid Tuesday evening for the second meeting this season, and thirty-fourth overall between the two teams, dropping the contest 9-5.

Bobcat pitcher Michael Russo came out weak to start on the bump, giving up two runs early. The Bobcat offense, however, was brought to life when designated hitter Keith Prestridge hit a two-run home run over the left center field wall to tie the game 2-2. The offense died down in the inning, but by the top of the second inning, Russo was in better command of his pitches with his curve ball breaking more sharply and was able to spot his fastball better as the game went on.

By the top of the third inning, right fielder Ben Ellington hit a double to right center field, where Bobcat center fielder Bret Atwood bobbled the ball at the wall, allowing the runner to reach third. TCU regained the lead by one run when designated hitter Matt Curry hit a ground ball to second base, scoring.

The Bobcats answered in the bottom of the third from with a solo shot over the left field wall by left fielder Tyler Sibley to lead off the inning. In the bottom of the fifth, Sibley reached first on a throwing error by TCU shortstop Tyler Featherston. Atwood followed that at-bat with a triple to right field to score Sibley all the way from first to take the first and only lead for the Bobcats. Texas State seemed to have the momentum under control, but come the top of the sixth inning that edge was flipped, cutting into the Bobcat bullpen in grand fashion by the top of the sixth.

Designated hitter Curry led the frame off with a solo home run to left field, an opposite-field shot for the left-handed hitter. The following hitter Jason Coats chopped a shot to left center field that seemed to carry itself out of the park without the help of the wind.

That back-to-back shots ended Russo's night, bringing in reliever Tim Heath from the 'pen. Heath gave up a third consecutive home run to Featherson, to even deeper left center field, giving TCU a 7-4 lead with nobody out. The damage continued as the 'Frogs pieced together hit after hit to stretch the lead to 9-4.

The Bobcats settled down by the eight inning, and the offense was jolted by a single from first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, his only hit of the night. Prestridge double to center, sending Goldschmidt to third. Lance Loftin, Bobcat third baseman and reliever, struck out for the second time on the night, but Kyle Kubitza walked to load the bases. Second baseman Adam Witek crushed a shot over the second base bag, scoring Goldschmidt and caping the offense for either team on the night.

By the ninth inning, Loftin transfered from third to the mound to close the game, and did so successfully, not allowing a hit and striking out one. To no avail, the Bobcats could not spur the offense in the home half of the ninth, and the Hornedfrogs won 9-5.

The all-time series stands in favor of TCU, winning 22 of the last 34 meetings. Under current head coach Jim Schlossnagle, the 'Frogs have won 5 of the last 8 meetings with the Bobcats.

Texas Christian is a powerful team from the Mountain West Conference, winning five consecutive MWC titles from 2004 to 2008. To see Texas State put up a good fight against a prestigious team such as the 'Frogs is exciting to watch for a budding program with tools in place to be a Southland Conference powerhouse.

Overall the Bobcats take the loss as a learning experience heading into a weekend series against Sam Houston State, Mar. 13-15. Sam Houston and Texas State are 3-0 each in SLC play this season, and this will be the first matchup between the two in 2009. First pitch for game one against Sam Houston State is set from Friday, Mar. 13, at 6:30 p.m.

Mason Robinson- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Women's Basketball Falls, Ending Hopes For Post-Season Play

It has been a rollercoaster like season for the Texas State women’s basketball team, but it eventually ended with an 88-83 loss to the Sam Houston State Bearcats to a final mark of 6-10 conference record and an absence from the Southland Conference Tournament for the first time since 1990.

The four seniors Kim Cessna, Brittany Wilson, Ashley Cole, and Ryann Bradford were honored in the pre-game introductions for senior night and played an excellent game by combining for 46 points. Cessna led the charge with a career high 26 by going 11-16 from the field.

The Bobcats did everything they could to prevent a loss on senior night by leading in rebounds 43 to 27, assists 19 to 16, blocks 4 to 0, steals 9 to 8, field goals 33 to 30 and fewer turnovers 13 to 16. With all of those categories won, it would seem that it would be the key ingredients to a victory. However, the second half surge of the Bearkats was the difference in this game in which they shot 70% from the field and scored 62 points.

The area that the Bobcats did poorly in was from the three point area. As it has been apparent throughout the season the Bobcats have not been successful from three point range (.266 coming into Sunday). The team certainly did not excel in this category once again by going 2-10 from beyond the arc compared to Sam Houston’s 10-25.

The win snapped the Bearcats 22 road losing streak in Southland Conference play and snapped the Bobcat seniors last chance for a win at Strahan Coliseum. Although Texas State lost four seniors, they will continue to develop the young talent with this seasons leading scorer Gabriel Maddux (12.1 ppg) to lead the charge.

Sam Kruppa- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Bobcat Baseball Sweeps Purdue

Texas State pounded out 14 runs to beat Purdue 14-10 and complete the weekend sweep.

The Bobcats got started early, scoring 6 runs in the first two innings. Bobcats first baseman, Paul Goldschmidt, had 2 homeruns for the 2nd consecutive game. Goldschmidt blasted a 3 run shot in the first to give the Bobcats an early 3-0 lead. He then parked a 2 run bomb over the right center field wall in the 4th. A sac fly in the 6th gave Goldschmidt 6 rbi's for the game.

Bobcat left fielder, Tyler Sibley, continued his assault on opposing pitching. Sibley went 3-5 with a double, he also scored 3 runs. Bobcat center fielder, Bret Atwood, added 3 steals and 3 runs. Bobcat starting pitcher, Brian Borski, earned the win to improve his record of 3-0 on the season. Borski went 5 innings, allowing 4 runs on 5 hits. Purdue starting pitcher, Matt Bischoff, earned the loss.

Texas State moves to 9-3 while Purdue drops to 2-7. Up next for the Bobcats is the #13 ranked TCU Horned Frogs. Bobcats host TCU Tuesday night at Bobcat Field. Fisrt pitch is slated for 6:30 p.m and you can listen to all the action on 89.9 KTSW.

Thomas Courtney- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Tennis Volleys to Get Win on Sunday

The Texas State Bobcats defeated the Mcneese State Cowgirls 6-1 on Saturday making them 2-2 in conference play.

The Cats started off the day by sweeping all three of the doubles matches. Once again leading the way was the veteran team of Lainy Chafitz and Andrea Giraldo as they won (8-2).The team of Mckenzie Farmer and Kiki Kruse also proved to be to much for their opponents as they won (8-4).The team of Nyssa Peele and Ashley Ellis rallied back after being down 6-1 to win their match 7-2 in a tiebreaker giving the Bobcats the sweep.

In singles play Ashley Ellis defeated her opponent (6-1) (6-3) proving once again why she is one the top players on the squad. Andrea Giraldo won her first set (6-2), but had to battle in the second set to get the win (6-3). Lainy Chafitz Captain of the Bobcats proved why she is the leader of the squad as she beat her opponent (6-1) (6-3)

Nyssa Peele battled throughout her match, but couldn’t quite get the job done. Peele rallied from behind in the first match, but was unable to defeat her opponent in a tiebreak losing (7-6). In the second match Peele continued to battle, but was unable to seal the victory as she lost (6-4).

Kiki Kruse continued her dominance in conference play as she defeated her opponent (6-0) (6-3) making her 4-0 in conference play thus far this season.

Mckenzie Farmer started off slow as she lost (6-4) in her first set. Farmer came out strong in the second set winning (6-3) taking the match to a third set where she defeated her opponent in a tiebreak (10-8).

The Bobcats will take on UT-Arlington next Friday as they look to build off this victory at Mcneese State in the hunt for a conference championship.

TJ Ladusky- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Baseball Ignites Fireworks in Game 2

The Texas State Bobcat Baseball team was able to shut down the Purdue Boilmakers for a second time at Bobcat Field Saturday afternoon with a victory of 17-4.

Bobcat's Bret Atwood made the first run for the Bobcats after designated hitter Spenser Dennis hit a single at the bottom of the 1st. The Boilmakers were not able to answer back to the Bobcats after the first run until the 7th inning due to the consistent pitching from Kane Hoolbrooks. At the bottom of the third the Bobcats' offense became fired up making 7 runs. In the 3rd Bobcat Jason Martinson hit a triple and Laurn Randell hit a double.

The Bobcats were able to hold the Boilmakers in the 4th and Paul Goldschmidt slammed a home-run into right field at the bottom of the 4th. This was the second homer hit at the new Bobcat Field. The 5th was another big inning for the Bobcat offense with Goldschmidt hitting a second homer and the Bobcats making three runs. It seemed as if the Boilmakers were not going to make any runs on the scoreboard until the offense finally came alive at the top of the 7th with 4 runs. However, the Bobcats answered right back at the bottom of the 7th when they as well scored 4 runs, canceling out the short success the Boilermakers had.

At the bottom of the 8th, the Bobcats put the icing on top of the cake with Randell hitting a homer into left field. The Boilmakers were unsuccessful at the top of the 9th giving the Bobcats the win.

The Bobcats were able to defeat this Big 10 team due to the incredible chemistry the defense had and the fired up offense. The Boilmakers lacked consistent pitching and defense coordination. This game was an easy win for the Bobcats boosting their overall record to 8-3. The Boilmakers now stand at 2-6.

Hillary Till- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Men’s Basketball Falls in Last Game of the Regular Season

The Texas State Bobcat’s fell to the Sam Houston State Bearkats on the final game of the regular season 92-82.

The Bobcats started off strong with Senior Guard Brandon Bush scoring their first two points from the free throw line. In fact three fouls led to the first four points of the basketball game.

Brent Benson took off from there with not one but two three pointers made sandwiched around a 19 foot jumper giving him eight of the Bobcats first eleven points. If things weren’t exciting enough, Bush received a pass on the baseline and went up strong. Flying in from outside of the key Bush slammed it down with two hands and let out a scream. Two of John Bowman’s patented drive in tear drop shots later and the Bobcat’s seemed like they were rolling. But Sam Houston was shooting well too and with eight points from the free throw line already they led 20-19.

The Bobcats couldn’t score for the next four minutes of the basketball game while the Bearkats went on an 11-0 run. Texas State started to get back on track but Sam Houston was reeling and added on to their lead finishing off the half leading 49-33. The Bearkats shot 60% from the field in the first half with 14 points coming from the free throw line. The Bearkats had already shot 13 more free throws than the Bobcats and that was a trend that would continue throughout the game.

Texas State tried to come back in the second half multiple times. The first run they made cut the lead to eleven at 51-40 but the Bearkats responded to open the lead back up to 19 points. Freshman Roshun Jackson got some extended playing time in the second half and made the most of it. He scored eleven points in the second half coupled with solid defense.

Jackson along with the rest of the Bobcat defense stepped up and began chopping in to the Bearkat lead. They cut it to ten points for the second time with 6:54 remaining. A missed three pointer by Bush followed by a three pointer by the Bearkats’ Lance Pevehouse and that was dagger for the Bobcats. Even thought there was plenty of time left it seemed like the moment that finally drug the air out of the Bobcats.

The two teams traded shots for the rest of the second half sealing the ten point victory for the Bearkats.

Texas State was once again led by its seniors. Bush scored 24 points with Benson adding in 21. Corey Jefferson was just shy of a double double with 10 points and nine assist. The Bearkats shot 45 free throws making 36 of them compared to 19 attempted free throws by Texas State. Texas State was also out rebounded 38-24.

But on the bright side Texas State has its first Southland Conference tournament game in three years on Thursday at noon against The Nichols State Colonels in Katy Texas. You can catch that game on 89.9 KTSW.

Dalton Sweat- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Cardinals Too Much For Cats

Texas State lost a close match on Saturday to the Lady Cardinals of Lamar. The Bobcats came into the game 1-1 in conference play, and were looking to get some revenge. The Cardinals beat the Cats 6-1 in a match last season during conference play.

The Cats started off the day winning two of the three doubles matches leading the way for the Cats was the team of Lainy Chafitz and Andrea Giraldo winning 8-3. Then Mckenzie Farmer and Kiki Kruse won 8-4 sealing the deal in doubles play.

Texas State had a tough day in singles play winning only two out of the six singles matches. Senior leader Lainy Chafitz lost (6-3) (6-0) to a tough Cardinal opponent. In the number one spot Sr. Ashley Ellis lost (6-3) (6-0) in a hard fought match. Jr. Andrea Giraldo lost in the first set (6-3). In the second set Giraldo started to rally, but it was not enough as she fell (6-4).

Kiki Kruse was the winner of one of the Bobcat single matches as she put on a great show defeating her opponent (6-1) (6-1) in two sets. Mckenzie Farmer battled back after losing in her first set (6-2) to win two sets in a row (6-3) (6-2) defeating her opponent. Junior Nyssa Peele played a really hard fought match. After losing in her first set (6-4) Peele took her opponent to a tiebreaker in the second, but was unable to pull off the victory as she lost (7-5).

With the loss to Lamar the Bobcats drop to (1-2) in conference play and (4-4) overall. The Cats look to improve their conference record on Sunday against Mcneese State.

TJ Ladusky- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Tritz of the Trade

The Texas State Bobcats, looking for their first victory in the newly renovated Bobcat Field, came out Friday night to face the Purdue Boilermakers in the start of a three game series. The two teams, having never faced each other in the schools history, come in on somber notes as the Cats lost their home opener in a tough game to Texas, and the Boilermakers only getting in 2 out of 4 games in a tournament over the weekend.

Going to the mound for the Boilermakers was Matt Morgan. Morgan came into the game with a 5.40 ERA and didnt help it much as he scattered six runs over his tenure of work. Morgan ran into trouble early giving up runs in the first, second, and third innings. Morgan settled down a little in the 4th and 5th, only to get touched up and eventually pulled shortly thereafter.

His main nemesis on the night was lead off hitter Tyler Sibley who went 3-3 on the night with a walk and HBP. Sibley got it going early as he started off the bottom of the first and second innings with singles and runs scored. Sibley was no where close to being done as he went deep to left field in the sixth for his first homerun of the season. The only Bobcat hitters that had a good night were Bret Atwood and Kyle Kubitza the DH. Paul Goldschmidt also put up a quality night with 3 RBI's.

The story of the night however was the pitching performance by Zach Tritz. Tritz went a complete 8 innings giving up 2 runs and striking out 8 while only walking one batter. Tritz got off to a nice start in the early half of the game, only really getting into trouble a few times on the night and able to work his way out of most of the situations. Tritz showed good command of his off speed pitches on Thursday and had a deadly curve working all night that kept the Boilermakers off balance. Tritz also got some defensive help with a few good plays happening behind him.

A brilliant diving catch was made early on a sac bunt, when the Boilermakers were trying to get something started, by third baseman Loftin. Tritz moved his record to 3-0 and dropped his ERA under his already stellar ERA that started under 2.00 on the night. Tritz also notched the first win for the Bobcats at the new stadium and the first home win of the year, he also gets the first win over Purdue for the Texas State Bobcats.

The series continues this Saturday and Sunday as the teams finish up the latter part of the three game series. We'll have updates from those game and you can listen to all the action on txstatebobcats.com.

Will McGinnis- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

"Can't Beat Texas State!"

The Men’s Basketball team came onto their home court tonight against UTSA Roadrunners facing a bit of a predicament. If they lost the game, chances of making the playoffs were still present but doubtful. If they won the game, chances of making the playoffs were much better, even if they were to lose to their formidable, final opponent, Sam Houston State. They knew of these chances and acted accordingly, knocking out UTSA tonight 80-66, led by senior Brandon Bush, 28 points, 19 rebounds, and Brent Benson, who scored 19 points, 15 of which were added by five three pointers. Out of the gate, the Bobcats seemed a little sluggish and unfocused and committed three team fouls within three minutes of the first half, and UTSA held the lead by as much as much as ten points at 24-14. After the Bobcats regrouped, and regroup they did, the team went on a 22-5 run on UTSA. The Cats took the lead into the second half and never looked back, leading the Roadrunners by as much as 17 points during the game. The fans knew just how important the game was and worried even down to the final minutes that the Roadrunners may muster a comeback, but their minds were quickly eased. The final blow was struck by Senior, three year letterman, Dylan Mosley, who made a proper exit in what was his last game at Strahan Coliseum with an emphatic break-away emphatic dunk with under three minutes remaining, followed by a victorious roar from the crowd. After the game, it was all smiles as Coach Doug Davalos and players gathered around media row to do interviews. This is the first time a Davalos lead Bobcat basketball team will go into the post season, and when asked about how big this win was for his team, Coach Davalos couldn't be any more pleased. "This was a big one," Davalos said. "I couldn't be more pleased with our teams effort in the second half to keep the lead and intensity going." The Basketball team will travel to Huntsville to face Sam Houston State this Saturday, and with the Bobcats being one of the hottest teams in the SLC right now, it should be a good game to finish the regular season. Right now let’s just focus on the win that could be the most important of the season. The Bobcats definitely did eat ‘em up tonight, and they deserved every bite. Saturday's game can be heard on 89.9 KTSW starting with the pre-game at 1:45 p.m. Tim Leeland- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Women's Basketball Needs Win After Loss To Get In Tournament

The Bobcat Women’s Basketball team headed south down I-35 last night to try and upset the conference leading UTSA Roadrunners by enacting revenge on senior night. Led by Senior superstar Monica Gibbs, the Roadrunners held strong on their home court, coming away with the 80 to 70 victory and sweeping the season series between the two teams, two to nothing.

From the moment the ball was tipped, the Bobcats could not buy a break, turning the ball over four times on traveling violations in the first two minutes. On the other end of the court, Gibbs was showing why she is a three time SLC player of the week winner this season, taking a slue of Bobcat defenders to the hole at her own discretion.

However, the Bobcats played with determination knotting the score at 12 a piece after an inbounds play to Kim Cessna was executed to perfection with just over 12 minutes remaining in the first half. Gibbs continued to wear down the Bobcat defense, seeing five different Bobcat defenders in the first half alone. Gibbs' ability to draw defenders left players wide open like Onika Anderson down low and Jordan Stark from behind the arc. The Roadrunners extended their lead to ten, at 45 to 35, as the teams headed for the locker rooms.

The teams traded baskets throughout most of the second half with a great deal of UTSA’s points coming from the free throw line. Gibbs made 20 trips to the line in the second half alone, capitalizing on 17 of 24 for the game. Gibbs led all scorers with 29 points along with 9 dimes and 8 boards.

The Bobcats made a late second half surge behind the hot long range shooting of Aimie Hilburn and some scrappy full court defense, dwindling the lead down to 5 with just under two minutes remaining. Failure to capitalize on some key buckets forced the Bobcats to foul and send a number of Roadrunners to the line down the stretch. UTSA’s victory moved them to 13 and 2 in conference play and dropped the Bobcats to 6 and 9.

Despite the loss, good news floated down from the rafters following the game; Sam Houston State and McNeese State both suffered losses which possibly could secure a spot for Texas State in the Southland Conference Tournament. Head Coach Suzanne Fox was impressed with the way her girls played and is excited about an opportunity to display their talent in the conference tournament. A win would solitify their appearance in the tournament, but even if the Bobcats lose on Sunday, they could still be in if the cards fall right.

Hilburn led the Bobcats with 25 points and Gabriel Mattox put up another double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds. The Bobcats final season game will be Sunday at two o’clock in Strahan Coliseum for senior night. You can listen to all the action on 89.9 KTSW starting with the pre-game at 1:45 p.m.

Matt Petmecky- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Texas State Falls Short in Front of Record Crowd

2,593 fans showed up to watch the Texas State Bobcats host the #4 Texas Longhorns on opening day of the new Bobcat baseball field.

The Bobcats got an early jump, scoring 3 runs in the first two innings. Bobcat left fielder, Tyler Sibley, scored on a throwing error in the first inning. Texas State got 2 more runs in the second inning off the bats of Adam Witek and Sibley. Bobcat starting pitcher, Michael Russo, cruised through the first 3 innings allowing only 1 hit, 1 walk and recording 1 strikeout. The score remained 3-0 in favor of the Bobcats through 3.

Brandon Belt and Michael Torres got the action started for the Longhorns in the 4th inning with 2 quick singles. Russo then struck out the next 2 batters to seemingly get out of trouble. A walk to load the bases and 2 singles later, the Longhorns tied the game. Texas brought 8 men to the plate in the 4th and scored 3 runs with 2 outs.

The Bobcats looked to respond with their own big 4th inning. State loaded the bases in the bottom of the 4th with help from an error (E6), a hit batter and a bunt single. Bobcat first baseman, Paul Goldschmidt, stepped to the plate with the bases loaded and 1 out. After battling to a full count, Goldschmidt chopped a slow bouncer into a 1-2-3 double play to end the inning.

The score remained a 3-3 tie through the 5th inning. The top of the 6th inning would spell the end for Russo. He was replaced by RHP Tim Heath. Russo went 5 innings, allowing 3 runs on 5 hits; he added 4 strikeout and 4 walks. The Bobcats got out of the 6th inning by striking out 2 and throwing out Kevin Keyes on an attempt to steal 2nd. Texas State broke the 3-3 tie in the bottom of the 6th. Witek reached 1st on an error, and later came around to score on a single to left center field by Brett Atwood. The Bobcats added 1 more run off 2 singles from Goldschmidt and Spenser Dennis, and took a 5-3 lead into the 7th.

Texas State pitcher, Heath, was replaced in the top of the 7th, by RHP Kane Holbrooks. Heath went 1 inning, giving up 0 runs on 1 hit; he added 2 strikeouts and 1 walk.

The Longhorns added 1 run in the 7th with a blast over the left center field wall off the bat of Belt. The Bobcats responded with a 1-2-3 inning. The score was 5-4 through 7 innings in favor of the Bobcats.

Holbrooks was replaced, in the top of the 8th inning, by RHP Tyler Brundridge. Holbrooks went 1 inning, giving up 1 run on 1 hit; he added 1 strikeout

Keyes started the 8th inning for the Longhorns with a walk. He reached second on a balk. Keyes scored on a single by Moldenhauer to tie the game at 5 a piece. Later in the inning the Longhorns took the lead when Travis Tucker lined a single to left field and brought in David Hernandez from second base. The Bobcats couldn't get anything going in the bottom of the 8th. The score remained 6-5 in favor of the Longhorns through 8 innings.

RHP Loftin replaced Brundridge in the 9th inning. Brundridge allowed 2 runs on 3 hits; he added 2 strikeouts.

The Bobcats held the Longhorns scoreless in the 9th inning. Loftin added 1 strikeout to give the Bobcat pitching staff 10 total on the night. With 2 outs, a man on first, bottom of the 9th, Bobcat right fielder, Laurn Randell, grounded to the pitcher to end the night for the Bobcats.

Although the Bobcats didn't come out with the victory against a very tough Longhorns team, it was still a night of history. One would only hope that the fans will continue to come out and give the same excitement that they gave tonight to carry the Cats through the rest of the season.

The Bobcats fall to a 6-3 record overall and start a weekend series against Purdue this Friday. You can catch all the action on txstatebobcats.com.

Thomas Courtney- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Baack... But Not Deep Enough

The Texas State Bobcats Softball team met up Sunday afternoon with McNeese State to settle the dispute in a three game series. The series went into Sundays game tied as the teams split the double-header on Saturday. The two clubs threw the same two pitchers that won the day before as Chandler Hall went for the Bobcats and Michelle LaVoie went for the Cowgirls.

LaVoie threw a complete game in her win in the second game of the double header on Saturday and continued her winning ways, going another seven innings and picking up the win. The game started with a rough patch for her as Designated Player McKenzie Baack hit a two run homer in the second inning giving the Cats an early lead. But LaVoie was able to settle down and keep the Bobcats at bay the rest of the game scattering 5 hits over the seven innings. She kept the hitters off balance with her deadly change-up that had hitters grounding out and uncomfortable at the plate.

The Bobcats had a good outing by Chandler Hall spoiled by making 5 errors and having all 5 of McNeese States runs unearned. In the third inning the Cowgirls got on the board cutting the lead in half when a throwing error by Chandler Hall helped keep the inning alive and a double by Dani Price brought in the runner from third. In the fifth inning the damage was greater when a no out throwing error by Alex Newton helped advance and eventually score three runners on another error by first baseman Leah Boatright. The Cowgirls added another insurance run in the top of the seventh on another error by Boatright.

In the bottom of the seventh the Bobcats tried to rally with a big double by McKenzie Baack but it was wasted as she was stranded on second when Kristina Tello lined out to right to make the third out. The good day at the plate by Baack was also stranded as the Bobcats lost due to 5 errors on the game. The Loss drops the Cats to 4-2 in SLC play and 12-7 overall.

The Bobcats Softball team will be back in action as they host the Texas Longhorns at 7p.m. at Bobcat Field on Tuesday March 3. The last time the teams faced off the Cats came back scoring 6 runs in the top of the seventh to win it in Austin.

Will McGinnis- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Game 2: Softball Double-Header Loss

With the first game in the books, the women were looking to take the second game of the double header and remain undefeated in conference play. The Bobcats defeated the Cowgirls in game one giving them their first loss in conference, and sent Katie Garnett to the mound to continue their five game winning streak; and it looked as if the cats were going to do just that until the top of the sixth inning.

The McNeese State Cowgirls put up 4 runs in the top of the sixth to take a one run lead, which was held for the rest of the game. Cowgirl pitcher Michelle LaVoie pitched a complete game and was rewarded with the win after settling in the Bobcat’s initial attack.

The Bobcats got out to an early lead in the third inning when Alex Newton stole home on a strategic double steal by the Bobcats, and Chandler Hall singled in the second run in the fifth inning to make it a 2 run advantage. Soon after, the Bobcats pulled the same trick by double stealing with runners on first and third, as Hall came on to plate the second run in the inning giving the Cats a three run advantage and some insurance. It seemed as if the Bobcats were going to cruise to another Southland Conference victory, but the Cowgirls of McNeese adapted to Garnett’s off-speed and began to mount a comeback of their own.

With 2 outs in the sixth, the Cowgirls rattled off four straight singles in addition to a lead-off walk that eventually chased Garnett out of the game before the Cats knew what hit them. Despite a late inning rally in the bottom of the seventh inning, kept alive by a McNeese State error and a Taylor Hall single, Leah Boatright struck out in an intense at-bat that ended the game in a loss for the Bobcats.

This marks the first loss in Southland Conference Play for the Cats (12-7 overall, 4-1 SLC), and sets up a rubber game for Sunday at noon. Ryan Kos and Alex ended the day with three hits each, and although Garnett pitched a solid game, she gets tagged with her fourth loss. The Bobcats look to take the third game in the series against the Cowgirls and to grab their fifth win in this early stage of Southland Conference Play.

Weston Warner- KTSW Sports Staff Writer

Game 1 Softball Double-Header VIctory

Texas State softball hosted McNeese State for the first Southland Conference series held at the new Bobcat Softball Complex Saturday, winning the first game 4-2 over the Cowgirls.

The Cowgirls were held to only 4 hits in the first game of the weekend double header due to a valiant effort by freshman pitcher Chandler Hall. Hall got the call to start her second consecutive game on the circle at home, lasting 6 innings and striking out 4.

The weather played a significant role on the day's action. It was sunny and cold, but most notable windy. The wind forced dozens of normally playable balls out of play, as well as three errors, 2 for Texas State.

McNeese State got on the board first in the 4th inning with two runs, spurred by second baseman Whitney Corbello's single to left field. Shortstop Molly Guidry reached on an error by Bobcat senior second baseman Ryan Kos, who bobbled a grounder, and infielder Holly Long walked to load the bases. Cowgirl first baseman Heather Mosser singled to left, scoring two. Quickly, sophomore left fielder Allyce Rother fired back into third base, catching Long in a pickle. Long made a successful slide back into second base during the rundown, where Kos made the catch, but failed to apply the tag the runner. Long, however, came off the bag, with Kos still aware of the play to quickly tag the runner out.

Texas State responded to McNeese's 4th inning statement in the home half of the inning when senior right fielder Taylor Hall reached first on an error by Guidry. Her sister, Chandler Hall, crushed a double to the right centerfield wall, scoring T. Hall all the way from first, putting the Bobcats on the board for the first time.

In the Bobcat 5th, Rother tripled to right field after the ball was carried over right fielder Lindsey Langer's head, due to the aforementioned windy conditions. Rother stole home on a ground ball off the bat of junior utility player Kristina Tello's bat. Mosser made a throw, but was off the mark and Rother reached home safely. Rother showed excellent timing in her base running ability on the play; Guidry checked back on her before making the throw, and once the shortstop cocked her arm back, Rother put her head down and charged home.

Throughout the game, the Bobcats showed their excellence on the basepaths: senior shortstop Alex Newton stole second base in the 5th and twice in the game, T. Hall set up a trick play in which she would steal second with a runner on third. Forcing a throw to second, this allowed the runner at third to steal home. However, this tactic only succeeded once.

The Bobcats deposited insurance runs in the 6th beginning with a lead-off walk to Junior first baseman Leah Boatright. Freshman Allison Snow pinch hit for sophomore infielder McKenzie Baack only to ground out to third base. Nonetheless, Snow put Boatright at second, and sophomore third baseman Jenna Emery doubled to center to score her comrade Boatright. Kos singled and advanced to second on an errant throw, allowing Emery to scored as well, securing the final score for the Cats.

McNeese threatened to comeback in the top of the 7th inning, which brought junior pitcher Elizabeth Dennis out from the 'pen to close the game, despite inheriting a runner on base. With the score 4-2, Dennis gave up one hit, allowing runners at second and third to represent the tying runs. McNeese's last hope to tie the game came down to center fielder Liz Morvant, who chopped a one-hopper to Dennis. Dennis made an emphatic snag, flipped to first base and the Bobcats won over McNeese State, 4-2.

Chandler Hall shows tremendous promise as a freshman Bobcat. She started the home opener in San Marcos against then-ranked No. 19 Texas A&M, only allowing two hits. Against McNeese, Hall showed poise on the circle to take advantage of the Cowgirls slowly crumbling efforts. For the first 4 innings, Cowgirl pitcher Bethany Stefinsky was in good control of the momentum for her team, but once the Bobcats scored in back-to-back innings, Stefinsky's composure faded quickly. C. Hall showed great tenacity in shutting down the Cowgirl offense, sitting runners down in order in the 5th and allowing no hits in the 6th inning. She naturally tired in the 6th, so head coach Ricci Woodard made the call to the bullpen.

Mason Robinson-KTSW Sports Staff Writer