ThunderWolves take 3-of-4 from Dakota State

CSU-Pueblo 11, Dakota State 4

Behind a strong pitching performance by starter, Scott Harshman (Sr., Pueblo, Colo.), the ThunderWolves disposed of the visiting Dakota State Trojans by an 11-4 score Sunday.

The ThunderWolves overcame an early scare as Harshman showed some struggles early to find his spots and the Pack suffered a few defensive lapses in the field.  Dakota State jumped out to a 4-1 lead after 3-1/2 innings, banking on two Pack errors and a lifted by a solo homer by Bryan White.

But Harshman rebounded, mowing down the next six batters and halting Dakota State's offense.  On the day, Harshman pitched seven strong innings, only giving up one earned run.

Once the errors stopped and Harshman regained his confidence, the Pack bats followed suit.  The ThunderWolves put up four runs in the fourth inning to take the lead, and a Jerry Salazar (Jr., Pueblo, Colo.) home run in the sixth inning gave the Pack some breathing room. 

The Pack added 10 runs in the middle and late innings, many of which helped by breakdowns by Dakota State fielders and pitchers.  The Trojans committed three balks, one of which advanced Mike Sanchez (Jr., Pueblo, Colo.) home from third base in the third inning, and added three errors throughout the game spawned two unearned runs for the ThunderWolves.  The other nine came by way of 11 Pack hits on the day.

The ThunderWolves' record improves to 5-3 with the win as the Pack continues its home stand next Friday when cross-region rival, University of Mary, comes to town for a four-game set.