CANYON, Texas (GoThunderWolves.com - Feb. 8, 2013) - A frightening 8th inning turned a would-be CSU-Pueblo win on its ear as the ThunderWolves gave up four runs to fall 7-6 to West Texas A&M.
The ThunderWolves were cruising in the 8th inning, up 6-3 behind a stellar performance on the mound from opening day starter and 2012 All-RMAC selection, Mike Fabrizio (Jr., Pueblo, Colo.), as well as a great debut from true freshman Dominick Bregar (Fr., Pueblo, Colo.), who ended the game with a team-high four hits.
But in the bottom of the 8th, the floor fell out from under the ThunderWolves.
After West Texas A&M pushed one run across, Fabrizio was left in the game as the Pack held a 6-4 lead. Against the next batter, Tate Baker, Fabrizio gave up a two-run home run over the leftfield fence as the Buffs tied with one swing.
Lonny Schoon (Jr., Colorado Springs, Colo.) entered the game at that point, and he gave up the dagger as Matt Redfeam hit the Buffs' second straight home run, putting West Texas A&M up 7-6 and suddenly dooming the Pack's chances for a win. A 1-2-3 9th inning sealed the Pack's fate.
The ThunderWolves' loss marks its second straight opening day loss, but they will have three chances to find vindication as its four-game series with West Texas A&M continues with a doubleheader Saturday.
