Grand Junction, CO – May 27, 2024 – In a rollercoaster of emotions, the #9 College of Southern Nevada (CSN) Coyotes fell just short against the #8 Florence-Darlington Stingers in Game 8 of the JUCO World Series. The Coyotes, who started strong and built a significant lead, ultimately succumbed to a late-game rally by the Stingers, losing 9-8. The defeat puts CSN at 1-1 in the JUCO World Series, while Florence-Darlington improves to 2-0.
Early Inning Tension
The game started under clear skies at Suplizio Field with a palpable tension in the air, reflective of the high stakes. Both teams were eager to establish dominance early on, but it was Florence-Darlington who managed to put a run on the board first. In the bottom of the second inning, Zack Hunt sent a solo shot over the right field fence, giving the Stingers a 1-0 lead. CSN pitcher Naun Haro limited the damage, but the Coyotes knew they needed to respond.
Coyotes Strike Back
The Coyotes roared to life in the top of the third inning. After two outs, Brady Ballinger walked, and Mikey Cruz singled, setting the stage for Tyman Long. Long didn't disappoint, launching a three-run homer down the left field line to put CSN ahead 3-1. The energy in the Coyotes' dugout was electric, as the players sensed a momentum shift.
Stingers Claw Back
Florence-Darlington didn't let the Coyotes' lead last long. In the bottom of the fourth, Devin Mitchell doubled down the left field line, and Tyler Kamerer followed with an RBI single, cutting CSN's lead to 3-2. Despite this, Haro managed to escape further trouble, preserving the lead for the time being.
Middle Inning Battle
The fifth inning saw more back-and-forth action. Jet Gilliam reached on a dropped fly ball by the Stingers' center fielder, advanced to third on the error, and then scored on a fielder's choice by Cruz. Later in the inning, Garrison Geis singled, driving in another run to extend CSN's lead to 5-2.
Late Inning Drama
The Coyotes extended their lead in the top of the sixth with a two-run homer by Gilliam, making it 7-2. Later, Geis singled, driving in another run to make it 8-2. Despite having a comfortable lead, CSN couldn't rest easy as Florence-Darlington continued to battle.
In the bottom of the sixth, the Stingers responded with a three-run inning. Devin Mitchell singled to shortstop, Kamerer walked, and Hunt singled through the left side to load the bases. Uribe replaced Haro on the mound, but James doubled, scoring two runs. Michael Gibson flied out to left field, scoring another, and reducing the Coyotes' lead to 8-5.
Heartbreaking Eighth Inning
The eighth inning proved to be the turning point of the game. With runners on first and second, and two outs, Ethan Plyler singled to right field, scoring two runs. The Coyotes then committed a crucial error, allowing another run to score and tying the game at 8-8. With the momentum firmly in their favor, Florence-Darlington capitalized on another opportunity. Devin Mitchell hit a sacrifice fly, scoring the go-ahead run and giving the Stingers a 9-8 lead.
Closing the Game
In the top of the ninth, CSN couldn't muster a comeback. Derek Duval came in to pitch for Florence-Darlington and quickly retired the Coyotes in order, securing the win for the Stingers.
Key Performances
- Jet Gilliam: Gilliam had an outstanding game, going 2-for-5 with a home run, a single, and two RBIs.
- Tyman Long: Long's three-run homer in the third inning was a highlight, providing a crucial lead for the Coyotes early in the game.
- Garrison Geis: Geis contributed with two hits and two RBIs, helping to extend CSN's lead in the middle innings.
Box Score Summary
Southern Nevada: 0 0 3 0 2 3 0 0 0 – 8 12 1
Florence-Darlington: 0 1 0 1 0 3 0 4 X – 9 13 2
W: Mike Joyce (1-0)
L: Tyler Ray (0-1)
S: Derek Duval (1)
Individual Highlights
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Florence-Darlington:
- Zack Hunt: 2-for-4, 1 HR, 1 RBI
- Mac James: 2-for-4, 1 Double, 2 RBIs
- Devin Mitchell: 2-for-4, 1 Double, 1 RBI
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Southern Nevada:
The College of Southern Nevada's loss to Florence-Darlington was a testament to the unpredictability and excitement of baseball. Despite leading for most of the game, the Coyotes were unable to stave off the late-game heroics of the Stingers. This game underscores the importance of resilience and the need to play a complete nine innings to secure victory.
The Coyotes, now with a 1-1 record in the JUCO World Series, will need to regroup and focus on their next matchup versus #5 Crowder College. The journey for a national championship continues, and CSN will look to bounce back with the same determination and tenacity they have shown throughout the season. With their blend of powerful hitting and strong pitching, the Coyotes remain a formidable force and a serious contender for the title.
