PUEBLO, COLO. – The University of Sioux Falls baseball team battled at the plate but couldn't overcome CSU Pueblo's big innings, falling 12-7 in the series finale on Sunday at Rawlings Field.
How It Happened:
Sioux Falls put together a strong offensive effort, tallying 13 hits, but CSU Pueblo capitalized on key scoring chances, using a five-run fourth inning to take control. The Cougars responded with two runs in the fourth, fifth, and sixth innings but couldn't close the gap.
Mitch Iliff led the way for USF, going 3-for-5 with two doubles and an RBI. Noah Christenson also had a strong performance, finishing 3-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored. Jaxon Haase, Dominic Vogel, and Nolan Drossel each contributed RBI hits to keep the Cougars in the game.
On the mound, Jake Pruchniak took the loss after allowing six runs over three innings. Johnny Checheris, Kaleb Klinkhammer, Zach Peta, Jace Coleman, and Eli Larson all made relief appearances, with Larson tossing two solid innings to close out the game.
CSU Pueblo was powered by Cody Macias, who finished with three hits and five RBIs, while Kysen Howard launched a solo home run to lead the ThunderWolves' offense.
Game Notes:
- USF's 13 hits is their highest total of the season.
- Mitch Iliff recorded his fourth multi-hit game of the year.
- The Cougars stole four bases in the game.
Up Next:
The Cougars' next series will take them back to Colorado, this time to take on Metropolitan State University, Denver. The series begins March 1st with a double header starting at 1:00 p.m. CST before single games on Sunday, March 2nd (1:00 p.m. CST) and Monday, March 3rd (1:00 p.m. CST). March 5th will complete their time in Colorado when they take on the Regis Rangers at 2:00 p.m. CST.
For all things USF Baseball, be sure to download the USF Cougars app as well as follow along on Instagram and Twitter!
