MAY 4 – If you thought the San Diego State series a couple weeks ago was big, then this series was massive. Entering the homestand, with the season winding down and the tournament just a few weeks away, both the Spartans (22-23, 9-12 MW) and the Rebels (24-20, 9-12 MW) were tied for 5th place in the conference. Only the top 6 teams make it to Mesa, and maintaining pace the rest of the way wouldn’t be an easy task for SJSU. The Air Force Falcons were the other team in that third-way tie for 5th, with Washington State breathing down their neck just one game behind. In order to avoid a late-season collapse, the Spartans would have to do their part, and rely on some help from the rest of the conference.
They did not do themselves any favors on Friday night. Win Scott picked up his 4th loss of the season. Scott, who compiled a 4-1 record and a 5.41 ERA through his first 8 starts of the season, has allowed 24 runs through 9.3 IP in his last 3 starts (averaging a 25.98 ERA across each of those appearances). In this one, Scott only went 1.2 IP, allowing 8 runs, 4 walks and a home run. UNLV would ultimately put up the 2nd 8-run inning of the game in the 8th, effectively avoiding the 9th due to the mercy rule. Combined, Friday’s pitching staff gave up 11 hits and 14 walks, the most they’ve given up this season.
Saturday’s contest went a little better. David Thomas gave up just 2 earned runs through 6 innings, while Nolan George gave up just 1 earned run through the next 6 innings as the Spartans would end up losing in the 12th inning. Despite generating 12 hits, SJSU was only able to muster a few runs as they lost 5-3. The top of the order (Caballero, Chamizo, Tallerman, McCoy) combined for a 10-22 performance at the plate, which included a solo shot from McCoy in the bottom of the 8th that would tie the game and ultimately send the Spartans into extra innings.
The Spartans, however, were able to take the high ground in the final matchup and avoid the sweep. Kyle Calzadiaz allowed just 2 runs through 5.0 IP, striking out 7. The offense took flight in this one, generating _ hits in a 4-2 victory. Jeriah Lewis led the surge with a 4-4 performance with an RBI. Caballero went 2-5, including a solo shot that was sent to a galaxy far, far away to give the Spartans the lead in the bottom of the 7th.
Sunday’s win proved to be absolutely critical for SJSU’s playoff hopes. Because Washington State and San Diego State both dropped their Sunday contests, all three teams plus Air Force sat at 10-14 in the conference. Because the Spartans hold the better overall record, they find themselves in 5th place at the conclusion of the weekend. In order to keep their playoff spot, they’re gonna have to take down the Bulldogs in Fresno next week.
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