Blue Raiders Lose in Doubleheader Finale

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - Caitlin Mclure had three hits and Martha Davis had an RBI but the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (18-21) did not score a run until the six inning as they dropped the second game of a doubleheader to the Memphis Tigers (23-12) at Blue Raider Field on Wednesday, 2-1.

Starter Lindsey Vander Lugt (13-14) picked received the loss for the Blue Raiders by giving up two earned runs on 10 hits, while striking out four and walking one, in the complete game effort.

Nicki Johnson (9-7) picked up the loss for the Tigers by giving up one run on five hits, while striking out six and walking none, in the complete game.

The Blue Raiders provided another great defensive highlight on season when they turned a double play in the top of 1st inning. Kara Ross grounded to Vander Lugt who threw to Katie Mielke at home plate for the force out before Mielke completed the double play by tossing it to first base.

Memphis took the lead in the top of 3rd inning when Kimmi Hayden singled to right with the bases loaded to drive in Lindsay Kelso and Leila Dolfo and give the Tigers a 2-0 lead.

The Blue Raiders did not respond until the 6th inning when Martha Davis grounded out to second base, driving in Mclure and leaving MT down 2-1.

MT was unable to complete the rally and both teams failed to score as the Blue Raiders dropped their second straight game to the Tigers.

Shelby Stiner had two hits to increase her average to .298. She also had three putouts on the season.

Middle Tennessee returns to Sun Belt Conference action when they host the North Texas Mean Green in a three-game series beginning Saturday at 1 p.m.

Friend of the Blue Raiders? Like us on Facebook and become part of the True Blue army today.