Things did not go as planned for the Florida A&M baseball team over the weekend, as a lackluster defensive performance led to a Grambling State sweep.
Head coach Willie Brown said the team played well during the first two games but needed to improve on defense. He said the team had several poor innings each game.
Despite recording 27 hits during the series, Brown also said the team did not produce hits during crucial moments.
“We aren’t getting the clutch hitting we need right now,” said Brown. “We also have to keep the other team from scoring.”
FAMU played two games on Saturday and one on Sunday. The Rattlers lost the first game 11-2 and gave up at least two runs in three separate innings.
The team played well defensively for the majority of the game but were not able to capitalize on offense. The Rattlers tallied one error during the game.
David Duncan started on the mound during the first game. He pitched five and one-third innings. During that span, he allowed 11 hits and five walks.
The Tigers earned 17 hits during the game. FAMU recorded seven hits with both Justin Abney and Daniel Lee finishing with two.
In game two, the Rattlers were defeated 6-1. They allowed six runs and committed one error. John Roberts led the Rattlers on the mound for six innings and gave up seven hits and two walks. The Tigers outperformed the Rattlers 10-5 in the batter’s box.
The Rattlers began game three Sunday afternoon and lost 15-7. The Rattlers committed a series-high four errors during the game.
Thomas Barwick was the starting pitcher for two and one-third innings, giving up seven hits and one walk. The Tigers produced 18 hits in all. The Rattlers earned a season-high 15 hits.
Abney, a third-year designated hitter from Detroit, said the team gave a good effort. He said the team scored early in game one but allowed Grambling State back to make a comeback.
“We were up 4-0 in the first two innings of the third game and we let Grambling State back in it,” said Abney. “I think we just need to focus more.”
Reginald Grant, a third-year shortstop from Marietta, Ga., said the team did well but came up short.
FAMU will return to action today to take on Maine University at the Moore-Kittles Baseball Complex at 4 p.m.