March 20, 2009
Box Score
LANSING, Mich. - Freshman Tim Ryan turned in a two-hit effort, while sophomore Aaron Wick turned in a solid relief performance, allowing just two runs in 5.2 innings of work, but it was not enough for the Oakland University baseball team (5-9) as the Golden Grizzlies dropped an 8-4 decision to Michigan State (4-14) on Friday at Oldsmobile Park.
The Golden Grizzlies got on the board first when senior Andrew Stafford scored on a passed ball. However, the Spartans exploded for six runs in the bottom of the frame, chasing starter Jeff Gorecki, who fell to 0-2 on the season after just 0.2 innings of work. The sophomore allowed three hits and walked three, and was charged with all six earned runs in the first inning.
However, Oakland would not go quietly, as senior Taylor Traub led off the top of the second inning with a solo homer, cutting the deficit to 6-2. The Golden Grizzlies added another run in the top of the second on an RBI single by senior Justin Wilson to pull to within 6-3.
The Spartans extended their lead to 7-3 in the sixth inning on a solo homer by Eli Boike, but Oakland answered back in the top of the seventh as Ryan scored on a Tommy Jablonski grounder.
However, Michigan State came right back with a run in the bottom of the seventh to take an 8-4 lead, and held the Golden Grizzlies scoreless down the stretch to seal the MSU victory.
Sophomore Aaron Wick was solid in relief for Oakland, allowing two earned runs on four hits, walking four and fanning two in 5.2 innings of work. Ryan was the only OU player with two hits.
The Golden Grizzlies will continue their three-game set at Michigan State with a single game Saturday. First pitch is scheduled for 1:05 p.m.
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