Pirates Take 3 of 4 From St. Charles CC

The NCMC Pirates scored a 3-1 series win this past weekend over St. Charles Community College.  The Pirates are now 13-14 overall and 7-9 in Region 16 games.  In the nine team region, the Pirates currently sit in 5^th place.  "Our goals are still in front of us.  We have 4 big series left against region opponents and we need to finish strong to give ourselves the best chance in the postseason," commented Coach Hillerman.

On Saturday, the Pirates got off to a disappointing start as they dropped a 4-2 extra innings home decision.  "Our pitchers threw very well.  We know that our ballpark isn't the largest and that we have to minimize damage when possible.  They finally hit one out to give them the lead.  Unfortunately, we just didn't score enough runs ourselves," stated Coach Suttenfield.

Game 2 had a much better outcome, with the Pirates soundly defeating the Cougars 10-6.  "Easley came out and threw the ball well for us, really competing.  That is what we always get out of him," detailed Hillerman.  Sophomore Kylan Easley improved his record to 3-2 on the season behind his strong effort.

Sunday, the Pirates traveled to St. Charles for games three and four.  The opener was again an extra innings affair, with the Pirates pulling it out 3-2.  Lucas Hampton, in relief, earned the win and Wyatt Thomas the save.  The Pirates plated the go ahead run in the top of the 11^th inning off a pinch hit single by Deric Killday.  Trae Brownell earned a no-decision despite 6 solid innings of work. 

The finale of the series was again a pitcher's duel.  The Pirates were able to scratch across two runs which was more than enough for the pitching staff.  Starter Wade Phillips and relievers Brenden Garza, Angel Reyes, and Bo McSpadden combined for a one-hit shutout.  "I'd would like us to walk a few less batters but at the end of the day we will always take a shutout," remarked Suttenfield.  Phillips got the win, his 3^rd of the year, and McSpadden earned the save, his 3^rd as well.

Next up for the Pirates will be a road doubleheader Tuesday against Indian Hills Community College.