Texas Tech ran its win streak to 3 by beating the Western
Illinois Leathernecks 13-11 in the final game of the Red Raider Classic.
For the first 5 innings, I thought I was watching Mike Leach's “Air Raid”
offense, as Tech tallied up 13 runs against Western Illinois pitching. Aided by
winds blowing out to left field, Kyle Martin led the Red Raiders with 2
home runs and 4 RBI's. Matt Smith and Doug Thennis also added home
runs for the cause. Designated hitter Chris Hall continues his tear
through the season going 3 for 5 at the plate including a double. Roger
Kieschnick added a triple and double as well.
It turned out that Tech needed all of that firepower as the Leathernecks struck
back for 4 runs in the 6th and 6 runs in the 9th. Western Illinois ended up out
hitting Tech 17-13 but could not overcome the early deficit in runs.
Cory Large, the sophomore from Bedford, Texas picked up the win. He
pitched a superb first two innings striking out 3 of 7 batters faced. Brian
Cloud came in for an inning and allowed only 1 hit. As the wind changed
direction due to a cold front blowing in, Tech pitching turned south as well. In
the top of the 9th, the Leathernecks batted around and were threatening to take
the lead with the go ahead run at bat. With runners at second and third,
Collin Auten was brought in and he picked up the final out of the game on a
strikeout. Auten got his second save in as many days, and also saved me from an
evening of refereeing a meltdown on Raiderpower.com. Thanks Collin!
Kudos from the cheap
seats
Not much is more entertaining than watching a Saddle Tramp named "Phil"
unsuccessfully field foul balls down the left field line. Good stuff young man,
there is a future for you in baseball as a mascot. Just to be safe, be sure and
get that degree first.
The trip to Negative town
A win is a win, and playing in 30mph winds makes the baseball do crazy
things. On the surface it looks like Tech blew a big lead and everyone almost
uttered the most dreaded word in the Red Raider lexicon. TYPICAL, is a baseball
game in Lubbock wind where no lead is considered safe. But like I said, a win is
a win and I hope that remains typical throughout the rest of the season.
Final Out
The Red Raiders are coming around and got a little better this weekend. If
you get a chance, maybe you should come around too. It is going to be a fun
season.
ON DECK
Eastern Michigan, 6pm Thursday @ Midland
Dallas Baptist, 6pm Friday @ Midland
St. John's, 5pm Saturday @ Midland
The next home game is Friday, February 23rd vs.
Northern Illinois at 3pm.
Russell Smith’s email is keeplubbockflat@suddenlink.net