March 19, 2004

Box Score

LUBBOCK, Texas - Clemson pounded out 13 hits and Jason Berken held Texas Tech to just four hits in six innings as the Red Raiders fell to the Tigers 7-3 in the opening game of a three-game series at Dan Law Field.

Hays Postgame (225k)

The game started out as a pitcher's dual as both Tech's Steven Thomas and Clemson's Jason Berken allowed just three hits between them in the first four innings. Clemson, however, took advantage of a shaky fifth inning by Thomas as the Tigers picked up four runs on five hits and two Tech defensive errors.

Clemson (8-7) extended its lead to 7-0 in the top of the seventh as the Tigers mounted a two-out three run inning. Shortstop Russell Triplett and pinch hitter John Ingram both picked up RBI doubles in the inning while right fielder Travis Storrer scored on a wild pitch from by Tech reliever Tanner McElroy.

Tech (13-7) finally got on the board in the bottom of the seventh as the Red Raiders loaded the bases with no outs. Clemson reliever Jeff Hahn walked home Josh Brady but then got himself out of the jam by getting consecutive strikeouts from Cody Fuller and Cooper Fouts and then retired Cameron Blair on a groundout.

Junior first baseman Josh Brady, who led the team with a 3-for-4 night at the plate, hit a two-out solo home run over the left field wall to pull the Red Raiders within five. The Red Raiders added another run in the bottom of the ninth as Jacob Jones led off with a double and later scored on a wild pitch.

Jason Berken (3-1) earned the win for Clemson as he allowed just four hits and struckout five in six innings of work. Steven Thomas (2-2) was tagged with the loss for Texas Tech as he gave up five earned runs on 10 hits in 6 2/3 innings.

Texas Tech and Clemson will meet again on Saturday afternoon at Dan Law Field. First pitch is set for 2 p.m.