Middle Tennessee State University defeated Liberty University in the opening game of their final Conference USA baseball series on May 14 at Reese Smith Jr. Field.
The result is significant as it affects both teams’ records near the end of the regular season, with Middle Tennessee improving its conference standing and Liberty facing a recent string of losses.
The Blue Raiders took control early, scoring eight unanswered runs over the first four innings. They tallied four runs in the second inning, three more in the third, and another in the fourth to build an 8-0 lead. Cooper Clapp led Middle Tennessee with three hits, including his tenth home run of the season and two runs batted in. David Horn was credited with the win after allowing one run on six hits while striking out nine batters over several innings.
For Liberty, right fielder Landon Scilley had two hits and an RBI, while third baseman Jordan Jaffe also recorded two hits and scored Liberty’s only run. Center fielder Josh Campos matched them with two hits as well. Starting pitcher Ben Blair took the loss for Liberty after giving up eight runs—five earned—over four innings pitched.
Liberty now holds a record of 19-9 in Conference USA play and 36-18 overall but has lost five out of its last six games. Middle Tennessee improved to 12-16 within their conference and stands at 25-27 overall.
Looking ahead, both teams are scheduled to play again tomorrow at Reese Smith Jr. Field with first pitch set for 4 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (3 p.m. Central Standard Time). The outcome will further influence their positions heading into postseason competition.
