BEAUMONT, Texas -- Lamar University opened up the Cardinal Classic by dropping two one-run games against Creighton and New Mexico.
The Cardinals (1-6) offense came to life in game one, scoring a season-high seven runs. After falling behind 3-0, Sophomore outfielder Audry Fleming started off a fourth-inning rally with a single to right field. Fleming would score on Nicolette Ramirez RBI double to left-centerfield. Junior catcher Felixia Hinojosa followed up with a walk. Freshman outfielder Piper Hankins would pinch-run for Hinojosa, eventually stealing second base. Junior infielder Hannah Kinkade would bring in both runs with a double to left field, tying up the game.
Big Red would have to do it all again in the fifth inning after falling behind 6-3. Back-to-back walks from sophomore infielder Brooke Davis and senior infielder Kaylee Ancelot would provide an opportunity for junior infielder Nicolette Ramirez, who blasted a triple which would drive in two runs. Janelle Marwitz, who pinch-ran for Ancelot, would score the second run. Ramirez would tie the game by scoring on a double from Hinojosa.
The Cardinals would take the lead in the sixth inning on a Kaylee Ancelot RBI single to bring home senior outfielder Alaka Xayaseng.. The lead wouldn't last though as Creighton would score two runs in the seventh inning, including the game-winner on a wild pitch.
While the first game for Lamar in the Cardinal Classic provided for 15 total runs, the defense was the story of the second game during a 2-1 loss to New Mexico. A two-run fourth inning would provide the difference in the game. Sophomore Reagan Jones scored the only run for the Cardinals, coming on a single from Davis.
The Cardinals have a short turnaround as they play two games Saturday. The first game will be played against Ohio with the second coming against New Mexico. First pitch is set for 11 a.m.
#WeAreLU
