The Panther pitching combination of Kolby Franks and Connor Meadows held Newman to four hits on Saturday. Usually, that would be good enough to get a win but unfortunately for EP, Newman’s Ethan Van Landuit did them one better allowing just 3 knocks for EP pitching a complete game, striking out 9 and walking 2.
Panther head coach Brad Tichler said the scenario has been too common. “The same thing as the last two games. We got good pitching and defense but just can’t get any timely hits.”
Newman started the scoring in the second inning. With Comet runners at second and third and no outs a wild pitch plated a run. Starting pitcher Kolby Franks then bounced back striking out the next two hitters and ending the inning on a comebacker.
The Panthers tied the game in the top of the fourth with Franks drawing a walk and scoring on an error by the Comet shortstop off the bat of Tucker VanDeWostine.
The Comets added three more in the fourth. After Newman loaded the bases with a pair walks and a single they pushed one across drawing the third walk of the inning. That was followed by a two RBI single.
Kolby Franks took the loss giving up four runs on three hits, striking out three, walking three over four innings.
The Panthers host Morrison on Monday.
