By CINDY CROSBY
The Salkehatchie Indians went 1-2 in a three-game series this past weekend against non-conference opponent Central Alabama on the road. The Indians dropped the first game 17-6 in nine innings Friday evening. Saturday’s double header saw Salkehatchie lose the first game 13-3 before earning an 8-4 win in game two. The Indians are 2-28 overall and 0-6 in Region X.
In game one played on March 25 in Alexander City, Alabama, the Indians lost the lead late after being tied at four runs in the bottom of the sixth. Ahmad Tucker started the game for Salkehatchie, surrendering eight runs on five hits over five innings, striking out three. Juan Rodriguez and Michael Love entered the game from the bullpen, throwing one and two-thirds innings and one inning, respectively.
The Indians racked up ten hits in the game with Rushton Bowles, Camron Gardner, and Jason Wilson recording multiple hits. Bowles led at the plate, going 3-4 on the day.
Saturday’s first game saw Salkehatchie fall behind early. Heston Thompson earned the start for the Indians, lasting four innings, allowing seven hits and nine runs while striking out one. Colby Routh, Jason Wilson, Evan Grant, and Eric Green each collected one for Salkehatchie.
Kenny Miller earned the complete game win in game two for Salkehatchie. The righthander went seven innings, allowing four runs on ten hits, striking out 11 and walking none.
The Indian’s offense fired up in the second inning, when Caleb Shealy singled on a 1-1 count, scoring one run. Rushton Bowles went deep in the top of the sixth inning and would lead at the plate, going 3-4 with 3-RBIs. Shealy, Ben O’Brien, and Colby Routh recorded multiple hits in the game and Eric Green stole two bases.
“We showed much more discipline at the plate in game two Saturday,” said head coach Jeremy Joye. “I preach all the time about the importance of executing the little things. Something as simple as adhering to our offensive approach enabled us to see more pitches, which yielded more walks. As a result, we were able to put pressure on their pitching staff and defense. Programs like Central Alabama generally do not make many mistakes. So, when they do, it is vital to capitalize on them.”
Salkehatchie is scheduled to host USC Union this upcoming weekend in a two-day double header series.
