Baseball Drops Pitchers’ Duel to LA Tech

Friday, March 1

Sugar Land, Texas

7 PM ET / 6 PM CT

Army West Point

4-4

Louisiana Tech

9-0

LOUISIANA TECH

ARMY

Baseball Drops Pitchers’ Duel to LA Tech

March 01, 2024 | Baseball

Box Score Cumulative Stats

SUGAR LAND, Texas – Army West Point Baseball was scoreless with the LA Tech Bulldogs into the eighth inning Friday night, but fell on the wrong end of the decisive frame and lost 4-0 on the opening day of the Peak Events Battle at the Ballpark at Constellation Field.

The Black Knights (4-4) gave up a two-out, two-run single, before the LA Tech added to its lead with a two-run home run an at-bat later.

Starting Pitcher Mike Ruggieri went seven scoreless frames, striking out six batters and allowing just one jt. The New Jersey native didn't allow his first hit until the seventh inning, and surrendered just three total baserunners.

Army had nine opportunities offensively with runners in scoring position, but came up empty each time. Even down four, they had the tying run at the plate in the bottom of the eighth with two outs.

By the Numbers

2-for-5: Chris Barr led the Black Knights at the plate with a 2-for-5 night Friday.

10: Army drew 10 walks Friday night, led by Braden Golinski with three.

.161: LA Tech hit just .161 overall.

2.0: RHP Joe Valchar tossed two frames out of the bullpen.

Black Knight Notes

Ruta has logged a hit in each game this season, and Barr has also reached base in each game.

Barr is a combined 5-for-9 over the Black Knights' past two matchups.

Next Up

Army will face service academy rival Air Force Saturday night in Day 2 of the Battle at the Ballpark. D1 Baseball will stream the game. First pitch is set for 6:00 p.m. ET.

Follow the Black Knights

Follow Army Baseball on X @ArmyWP_Baseball and on Instagram @armywp_baseball. Fans can also like Army West Point Athletics on Facebook and learn more about baseball and other programs at goarmywestpoint.com.