By Dustin Semore
FHU Information Director
The (RV) Freed-Hardeman University Lions scratched two runs across in the first inning, but could not answer the No. 3 University of the Cumberlands (Ky.) Patriots. The top-seeded Patriots put up seven unanswered to knock FHU out of the Mid-South Conference tournament with a 7-2 final.
After Brady Spring was the first of seven Freed-Hardeman (30-18-1) hit batsmen, JJ Pruneau singled to put a pair on the basepaths. Cam Madding hit a gapper to right-center that drove in both runs as the junior celebrated on third with a triple.
After the Patriots (46-6) followed with a run in the bottom of the frame, two more runs would cross in the home half of the third inning to give UC the lead. The third-seeded Lions had opportunity, but left the bases loaded in both the fourth and fifth innings, stranding 10 baserunners throughout the course of the game.
Evan Koob (1-2) got his first start of the season, throwing two innings. Matthew Riley was the first of four bullpen arms, coming on in relief where he struck out four batters in 2 2/3 innings.
The Lions tallied four hits in the defeat: two from Jordan Carter and one each from Cam Madding and JJ Pruneau.
The Lions are now at the mercy of the ratings committee, praying for a coveted at-large bid to the NAIA National Tournament. The selection show will be aired on the NAIA’s Youtube channel on May 9 at 4 p.m.
