Box Score

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. -- Indiana State pounded out 14 hits, including six for extra bases, on its way to a 14-7 victory over Murray State on Sunday afternoon to take the rubber match of the weekend series. The Sycamores (9-6) registered a three-run home run, two bases loaded triples, and a two-run triple to knock out MSU (7-12).

“We were very happy with the way the offense responded to the left-handed arms they brought to the mound today,” said head coach Bob Warn, referring to the three southpaws that toed the rubber for Murray State. “Plus, today we got the big hits to score in bunches which was much different than the first two days.”

Nevin Ashley led the Sycamore offensive attack driving in a career high five runs on a home run, a triple and a double. The Sycamore catcher got things going for ISU in the second inning hitting a three-run home run to right field on a full-count with two outs giving the Sycamores a 4-3 advantage. ISU had fallen behind by giving up three runs without the aid of a hit in the top of the inning.

Ashley pushed the lead to 6-3 in the fourth with a two-out triple for his final two RBI of the game. However, the Thoroughbreds knotted the game in the fifth scoring three runs, including two unearned runs, on two hits off of ISU starter Ryan Tatusko.

The Sycamores would take the lead for good in the bottom of the sixth, scoring four runs on three hits with the big blow a bases loaded triple by Tim Brewer. After trading single runs in the sixth, Ryan Bond would deliver the crushing blow with his only three-run triple in the seventh to give ISU a 14-7 lead.

Brian Omogrosso finished off Murray State throwing the final four innings giving up only two hits to earn his second save of the season. Tatusko (2-2) earned the victory giving up three earned runs on just four hits, while striking out four.

Brewer also posted a career-high with four RBI on two hits and scored twice. Dan Caudle recorded the first three-hit game of his career, while Cory Kral scored three times.

Jon Newton (2-2) took the loss giving up four runs on three hits and two walks in just two-thirds of an inning.

Indiana State will continue its nine-game homestand on Tuesday when Miami (OH) comes to Sycamore Field for a non-conference clash. The Sycamores then host Purdue on Wednesday before opening MVC action this weekend at Evansville.