Kentucky Falls To Ole Miss In Game One

[caption id="attachment_194471" align="aligncenter" width="600"] UK Athletics[/caption] Kentucky dropped their opening game at Ole Miss 3-1 on Thursday night. The BatCats were 0/11 with runners in scoring position, which did not give Zack Brown much to work with over six innings. Tristan Pompey provided the only run of the game with a solo home run to lead off the third inning. Brady Bramblett bent but didn't break for Ole Miss on the bump. He allowed nine baserunners in 5.1 innings, but Pompey's home run was the only run that he allowed. The Rebels' bullpen was able to shut down the offense for the final 3.2 innings and preserve a 3-1 win. UK had opportunities all game, but could never capitalize. Here is the breakdown of tonight's game.

The offense couldn't do anything with runners on

UK was 0/11 with runners in scoring position and stranded nine runners in the loss. Riley Mahan was 0/4 and stranded a runner in each of his at-bats. Troy Squires struck out with two on, and then was called out for runners interference when he tried to run to first on the passed ball. There were several plays like that all night, they just didn't go UK's way. Luke Becker and Evan white both collected three hits, but were never brought home.

Zack Brown looked a lot better

Brown took a tough loss tonight after going six innings and allowing only two runs. Despite allowing nine hits, Brown was able to work out of tight spots. Brown really battled as he threw over 115 pitches in six strong innings. Heading into the final weeks of the season, it would be great if Brown could provide some solidity to the rotation outside of Dustin Beggs and the resurgent Kyle Cody. Brown's ERA is still near six, but tonight was a move in the right direction.

The three bright spots on offense

White, Becker, and Pompey played very well while the rest of the offense struggled. White is now 18 of his last 36 at the plate after a 3/5 performance against Ole Miss. Pompey showed tonight why he has so many people excited about his future at UK. He showed his power and arm strength in game one. Pompey held a runner at second with a solid throw from centerfield in the 7th. The freshman made a bold move by shushing the Ole Miss student section following the throw. It was all in good fun, as Pompey laughed it off and went onto the next play. His solo homer was the only RBI for the Cats tonight. Kentucky and Ole Miss continue their series tomorrow and wrap it up on Saturday afternoon. The final two games are available online.