Grand Junction, CO – May 29, 2024 – In a nail-biting elimination game at the JUCO World Series, the College of Southern Nevada (CSN) Coyotes fell to the Florence-Darlington Technical College Stingers, 6-4, ending their tournament run and placing them 5th overall. The game, played at Suplizio Field, was a testament to the Coyotes' resilience, but ultimately, they could not overcome a mid-game surge by the Stingers.
Early Lead and Defensive Struggles
The Coyotes started the game strong, taking an early lead in the first inning. Mikey Cruz singled through the left side and then scored when Ashton Zacher doubled to left-center, putting CSN up 1-0. However, the Stingers quickly responded in the second inning with a solo home run by Tyler Kamerer, tying the game at 1-1.
CSN's starting pitcher, Lucas Boesen, managed to keep Florence-Darlington at bay through the third and fourth innings, but defensive errors started to pile up. A critical error in the second inning allowed the Stingers to score their first run. Despite these errors, Boesen struck out seven over five innings, showcasing his ability to maintain composure under pressure.
Trading Blows
The Coyotes reclaimed the lead in the fourth inning. Tyman Long walked, advanced to third on Kaiden Smaka's double down the right-field line, and then scored on a wild pitch. Smaka's heads-up base running allowed him to score as well when Jack Wheatley was hit by a pitch and eventually advanced home on another wild pitch. This two-run inning gave CSN a 3-1 lead.
Florence-Darlington was relentless, though, and the sixth inning proved to be their breakout moment. Boesen, who had been solid until this point, allowed a leadoff walk to Josh Campos, followed by a two-run home run by Ethan Plyler that tied the game at 3-3. The Coyotes brought in Logan Smith, but errors and timely hitting by the Stingers extended the inning. A two-run home run by Jackson Proctor put Florence-Darlington ahead 6-3, marking a significant shift in momentum.
CSN's Comeback Attempt
Despite the setback, the Coyotes did not back down. In the bottom of the seventh, Jet Gilliam was hit by a pitch and scored on a sacrifice fly by Zacher, narrowing the gap to 6-4. However, the Stingers' bullpen, led by Marcus Locklear and Derek Duval, managed to shut down any further scoring opportunities.
Ninth-Inning Drama
As the Coyotes entered the bottom of the ninth, they needed a rally to keep their World Series hopes alive. Brady Ballinger walked to start the inning, providing a glimmer of hope. However, Mikey Cruz hit into a double play, extinguishing much of the momentum. Zacher's fly out to left field sealed the game, and the Coyotes' tournament run ended in a 6-4 defeat.
Key Performances
- Lucas Boesen: Despite being charged with the loss, Boesen's performance over five innings, including seven strikeouts, was a highlight for CSN.
- Ashton Zacher: Zacher was crucial at the plate, going 1-for-4 with two RBIs, including a pivotal double in the first inning.
- Kaiden Smaka: Smaka's heads-up base running and solid performance at the plate, including a double and a run scored, kept the Coyotes competitive.
Box Score Summary
Florence-Darlington: 0 1 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 – 6 7 0
Southern Nevada: 1 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 – 4 6 1
W: Marcus Locklear (1-0)
L: Lucas Boesen (0-1)
S: Derek Duval (2)
Individual Highlights
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Florence-Darlington:
- Ethan Plyler: 2-for-4, 1 Double, 1 Home Run, 2 RBIs
- Tyler Kamerer: 1-for-4, 1 Home Run, 1 RBI
- Jackson Proctor: 1-for-4, 1 Home Run, 2 RBIs
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Southern Nevada:
The College of Southern Nevada's journey in the JUCO World Series, though ending in elimination, was marked by remarkable performances and tenacity. Finishing 5th in the prestigious tournament is a significant achievement, reflecting the team's hard work, talent, and perseverance throughout the season.
The Coyotes displayed formidable strength and skill, particularly in their pitching and timely hitting. Despite the loss, the players and coaching staff can be proud of their accomplishments, knowing they competed at the highest level and held their own against some of the best teams in the nation.
As the Coyotes look ahead to the next season, they will undoubtedly build on the experiences and lessons learned from this World Series run. The blend of seasoned players and emerging talent promises a bright future for the program.
Coach Nick Garritano expressed his pride in the team, stating, "Our guys showed incredible heart and determination. This tournament tested us in every way, and while we're disappointed with the outcome, we're proud of how we competed."
The 2024 season will be remembered as a year of growth and achievement finishing with the second most team wins at 53 in program history for the College of Southern Nevada. The team's performance in the JUCO World Series, particularly their ability to fight until the very end, embodies the spirit of CSN athletics. As the Coyotes turn their attention to the future, they do so with the knowledge that they are capable of competing with the best and have the foundation to continue their success.
