Late Run Spoils Ocelots Comeback

DETROIT, MI – The Ocelots kicked off their 2024 conference play in the confines of the Corner Ballpark, playing host to the Monarchs from Macomb Community College.

Things would get started early for Macomb, thanks to a 3-run home run, Macomb was able to take a 4-0 lead after just the top of the 1^st inning. Luckily for the Ocelots, starter Philip Miller would be able to shut down the Monarch offense from there. For the game, Miller would end up going 7 innings, allowing just those 4 runs while striking out 5 Monarchs.

The Ocelots would chip away at the early start from Macomb. In the bottom half of the 3^rd, Schoolcraft would plate 2 runs on a 2 out single from Sawyer Pace. The threat would end at just 2 runs for Schoolcraft as a strikeout would end the inning with the bases loaded. 3 innings later, Schoolcraft's Tashawn Eatmon would single through the left side of the infield to tie the game, bringing home John Sowards and Tyler Allos. After what was a rough 1^st inning for Schoolcraft, suddenly, it was a new game.

The Ocelot offense would not be able to produce much from that point on. With Macomb taking the lead in the top of the 8^th on a 2 out error from Schoolcraft, that unearned run would prove to be the difference. Schoolcraft would get a 2 out double from Bryan Tuttle in the bottom of the 9^th but would fail to bring him in to tie the game.

The Ocelots fell to 0-1 in MCCAA play but look to bounce back on Monday as they "host" Mott Community College. The game will be played at The Corner Ballpark with Mott acting as the home team. The first pitch for the contest is slated for 2:00PM.