MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – The Sam Houston Bearkats fell behind early and were never able to redraw to even as the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders completed a weekend sweep with an 13-3 win in seven innings on Sunday afternoon at Reese Smith Jr. Field.
MTSU (23-28, 8-16 CUSA) scored three times in the first inning and broke it open with a 5-run fifth to surge itself back into contention for a spot in the upcoming Conference USA Tournament. The Bearkats (12-39, 6-18 CUSA), meanwhile, are still alive for a spot as well, but will need a successful final weekend vs FIU and help to make the field.
Ryan Franden led the offense with his second straight 3-hit game, while Easton Dean had a pair of RBI on a 2-run double in the top of the second which cut the deficit to 3-2 at the time. Cam Diaz got the start on the mound and took the loss, allowing five runs in 4.0 innings before the bullpen took over.
MTSU senior Will Jenkins earned his third win of the season with 5.0 innings pitched, striking out three and surrendering seven hits.
UP NEXT
Sam Houston is set to host its final midweek game of 2025 on Tuesday when HCU comes to Don Sanders Stadium. First pitch is scheduled for 6:00 p.m.