The Concordia Tornados used a four run rally in the top of the eighth inning to take a commanding 9-4 lead over the Southwestern Pirates in the finale of the weekend series this afternoon at Rockwell Field. Familiar foe Justin Beasley, who had plagued the Pirates all weekend, once again broke open a close contest with a three run two out single in the 8th. Concordia freshman designated hitter Michael Bogard went three for three with four runs scored and an RBI.

Southwestern starting pitcher Chris Churchwell went seven strong innings allowing five runs, only three of which were earned. He walked two and struck out four.

Concordia starter Donovan Riggles struggled, allowing three runs and six hits but was able to avoid any major damage in his 3 and 1/3 innings.  Steven Peterson and Ryan Ullman each pitched 2 and 1/3 innings, allowing only one run and one hit between them. Sean Thompson came on for the ninth and initially had problems with his control, walking the first two batters he faced allowing a run to score on a single by Matthew Clark. He was lifted in favor of Austin Rupert who finished up the sweep for the Tornados.

Offensively the Pirates were led by Todd Boone, Chris Lowry, and Cray Betts who had two hits each. Boone scored two runs and Betts added a run as well while Lowry contributed an RBI. Right fielder John Wooten drove in two runs and also scored a run.

For the third game in a row against the Tornados a late rally by the Pirates fell short as Concordia’s Rupert was able to work out of a bases loaded jam in the ninth after allowing an inherited runner to score on Chris Lowry’s single to right to make it 9-6. Three consecutive fly-balls to right by Betts, Charlie Garrett, and Boone ended the threat and the game.

The Pirates fall to 1-4 on the year. They next face Howard Payne University on Tuesday at 1:00 pm in Brownwood, TX.