Tyler, Texas – The Dustdevils secured a dominant 6-1 victory in game 1 over the #25 UT Tyler Patriots in a game that showcased their offensive bats and strong pitching performance.
The Dustdevils wasted no time in the 1st inning, with Cervantes, Gonzalez, and Prieto driving in runs to establish an early 3-0 lead.
The 5th inning saw Cervantes adding another run with a sacrifice fly, extending their lead to 4-0.
A crucial 7th inning featured Buentello drawing a walk, allowing Medina to score on a wild pitch, and Prieto's fielder's choice, resulting in Cruz crossing the plate.
The Patriots managed to avoid a shutout in the 7th inning, as LaBuda's sacrifice fly brought Mason home.
Gutierrez went 1-for-5 at the plate, stole a base, and scored a run. Medina drew 1 walk, stole a base, and scored 2 runs. Cruz went 1-for-3 at the plate, drew 2 walks, and scored 2 runs. Cervantes was a force at the plate, going 2-for-4 with 2 RBIs.
The Dustdevils' offensive contributions were complemented by stellar pitching from
Isaac Ponce who went 6.2 innings, allowing only one run while striking out nine.
Austin Brewer closed out the game with a solid 2.1 innings, securing the victory for the Dustdevils. The win went to Ponce, bringing his record to an impressive 3-0, while the loss was credited to Blomquist of the Patriots.
With the win, the Dustdevils improve to 10-9 and the Patriots fall to 9-8. The Dustdevils return to action on Saturday, March 2 in Tyler, TX to face the #25 Patriots for games 2 and 3 of the series, beginning at 3 p.m.
