CARY, NC — A late-game rally wasn’t enough for the Angelo State Rams to defeat Indiana (PA) in the Semifinal matchup at the Division II College World Series. The Rams had an all-around rough pitching outing on the mound on Thursday as the Crimson Hawks scored ten runs to down the Rams 10-8.
Indiana (PA) took an early lead thanks to some walks and a hit by pitch. Angelo State responded well, with runs scored in the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th innings. Despite the offense clicking, lead-off walks led to several base hits that kept the game out of reach. Indiana (PA) took an 8-4 lead in the bottom of the 4th inning, which ended up being the difference in the game.
Angelo State roared back in the 8th and 9th innings. Down 10-7 in the top of the 9th inning, the Rams loaded the bases with two outs. Freshman Ryder McDaniel, who already had a 2-RBI double on the day, stepped up to the plate with a chance to blow the game open. With a loaded count, McDaniel popped up to foul territory for the final out, and the Rams fell 10-8.
While the result isn’t the desired outcome, the Rams are not out of it yet. Angelo State returns to action for the final Semifinal game in a rematch against Indiana (PA) with a ticket to the College World Series finals on the line. The Rams need a better outing from their bullpen and another explosive day on offense if they want to repeat as National Champions.
First pitch in Friday’s matchup is still to be determined.
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