DBU Stays Undefeated: Frisco Classic 2024 Game 1 Recap
In an intense showdown, DBU clinched a 4-3 victory over the Arizona Wildcats, maintaining their flawless 9-0 record for the season while the Wildcats moved to 4-5.
So now the DBU Patriots have a new school record. A nine game winning streak to start a season.
The Patriots sent their Ace, RHP Ryan Johnson, to the mound. Johnson is coming off a high after being named Conference USA pitcher of the week on Monday with a career-high 13 strikeouts on Friday against Central Michigan.
He outdid himself today, striking out 14 in this game. Johnson now has 27 strikeouts in his last two games (13.2 IP) and ranks eighth all-time with 197 strikeouts.
LHP Jackson Kent took the mound for Arizona, who also had some strong numbers prior to this game. He had a 1-0 record with a 3.00 ERA, 3 BB, and 13 strikeouts in 12 innings pitched prior to this game.
DBU showed their offensive prowess at the very start. Alex Pendergast and Ethan Mann contributed solo homers in the 1st and 2nd innings respectively, giving DBU a 2-0 lead.
However, Arizona rallied in the 3rd inning, netting 3 runs off Johnson, snatching a 3-2 lead that held until the 8th inning. DBU was able to tie the game on a wild pitch and then scored the winning run on an RBI groundout.
Nick Wilson sealed the deal for DBU. He was hitting between 93-95 and retired the final 5 hitters.
With matchups against Indiana and the Crimson Tide on the horizon, DBU is gearing up for thrilling games, poised to showcase their mettle once again.
River Ridings (1-0) earned the win while Nick Wilson (1) earned his first save.
Final Line for Ryan Johnson: 6.2 IP, 3 R, 7 H, 1 BB, 14 SO
Post Game Praise for Johnson
Coach Dan Heefner praised Johnson after the game when he was asked about his performance saying “he’s an elite pitcher”.elite performance, recognizing his invaluable contribution to the team’s success.
Coach Heefner also confirmed that Wilson would be available to pitch again in Sunday’s matchup against Alabama.
DBU’s Upcoming Games:
– DBU vs. Indiana: Saturday, March 2nd, 2024, at 12 PM
– DBU vs. Crimson Tide: Sunday, March 3rd, 2024, at 4 PM
Stay tuned to the Prospect Times for updates on the All-Tournament team.