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Starting pitcher Konnor Pilkington was phenomenal on the mound as the Diamond Dawgs beat the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns by a score of 3-1 in MSU’s opening game of the Shriner’s College Classic.
The game remained scoreless through three innings as neither team could get things going. Pilkington had an incredible seven strikeouts through three frames.
The Ragin’ Cajuns were the first team to get on the scoreboard as a two-out single put them up 1-0.
The Diamond Dawgs tied the game at 1-1 in the top of the sixth inning after Dustin Skelton got hit by a pitch with the bases loaded.
The game would remain tied until the ninth inning when Tanner Poole homered to give MSU a 2-1 lead. The Diamond Dawgs would add another important run in the ninth after Rowdey Jordan doubled and later scored from a Tanner Allen single, giving them the 3-1 win.
Despite pitching an incredible seven innings, Pilkington was charged with a no decision. He struck out 13 batters, walked one batter and allowed just one run.
Cole Gordon (1-0) earned the win after coming in relief. He pitched two innings, and struck out four batters.
Brock Batty (2-1) was charged with the loss for the Ragin’ Cajuns. He pitched 3.1 innings in relief and allowed two runs on five hits.
The Diamond Dawgs will be back in action again today, as they face the Houston Cougars in the primetime game.