Box Score April 9, 2011
Box Score
BEAUMONT, Texas - Blake Ford struck out nine in a complete-game six-hitter to lead the Lamar University Cardinals to a 1-0 win over Texas A&M-Corpus Christi in a Southland Conference baseball game at Vincent-Beck Stadium on Saturday.
Ford (5-2), who has not allowed an earned in his last two starts, walked just one. He was aided by a Lamar defense that played errorless baseball and turned three double plays.
"That's the second straight strong start that Blake has had for us," Lamar coach Jim Gilligan said. "Right now, he's our best pitcher, and he's showing that when he takes the mound."
The Cardinals (21-13 overall, 8-6 SLC) scored the game's only run when Wade Mathis drew a two-out bases-loaded walk in the bottom of the seventh off reliever Chris Pena, who had entered the game to face Mathis in a lefty-lefty matchup.
That made Texas A&M-Corpus Christi starter Justin Meza (2-2) the hard-luck loser. Meza allowed just four hits over 6 2/3 innings, but was plagued by wildness, walking six and hitting one batter.
"It was a well-played game on both sides," Gilligan said. "People talk about wanting to see offense, but how can you go away from this game disappointed. Both teams played the game the way it should be played."
Jeramie Marek had two hits for Texas A&M-Corpus Christi (22-13, 7-7). Lamar's Jeff Abt drew a walk in all four of his plate appearances.
The series concludes at 1 p.m. Sunday at Vincent-Beck Stadium. Pat Knight, Lamar's new men's basketball coach, will throw out the ceremonial first pitch. All youngsters who wear their team baseball or softball uniform will be admitted for free. Youngsters will be allowed to run the bases after the game. Sunday's game will be aired live on KLVI (AM 560).
LAMAR
