The University of Memphis baseball team defeated Rice 4-1 on Apr. 17, using a late-game offensive surge and solid pitching at Reckling Park in Houston, Texas.
This win is important for Memphis as it looks to improve its standing in the American Athletic Conference. The Tigers scored all four of their runs in the final four innings while holding Rice to just one run on four hits.
Rice took an early lead with an RBI single in the first inning. Memphis was held scoreless through five innings but tied the game in the sixth with an RBI single. The Tigers then took advantage of a throwing error by Rice in the seventh inning to take a 2-1 lead. In the eighth, they extended their advantage with a two-run home run, bringing the score to 4-1.
Memphis starting pitcher Howell allowed only one run on three hits over seven innings and struck out two batters. Howell achieved his longest outing of his career, retiring 15 straight batters between the third and eighth innings on just 94 pitches. “Howell achieved the longest outing of his career and did so on just 94 total pitches,” according to team officials.
Rodriguez stole another base for Memphis, increasing his season total to 30 steals—ranking first in conference play and fifth nationally—and is now ten steals away from breaking Memphis’ all-time single-season record of 39 stolen bases.
Center fielder Gupton continued his strong performance at bat with two hits out of four appearances, marking his eleventh multi-hit game this year. Catcher McAbee also had a productive night with two hits including his second double this season.
Relievers closed out the game effectively for Memphis, allowing no runs over the final two innings. Closer Fair earned his seventh save of the season, which is second most in conference play.
Memphis will face Rice again Saturday afternoon as they seek their first conference series win.
