March 15, 2009

Box Score / Photo Gallery

HOUSTON -- The University of San Diego scored six runs in the middle innings and two more late in the contest to claim an 8-0 win over the Rice baseball team Sunday afternoon at Reckling Park and wrap-up a weekend series that was shortened from four to three games due to rain in the area.

After rain postponed Saturday's third game of the series, the teams planned to play a double-header on Sunday starting at 11 am. In what became an unofficial theme for the weekend, rain hit after the first inning Sunday and delayed the contest for more than three hours.

The game resumed with three more scoreless frames, but San Diego erupted for four runs in the top of the fifth. Jose Valerio and Brian Farris both singled and James Meador was hit by a pitch to load the bases. The next batter, Victor Sanchez, was bit by a pitch to score the first run of the series since Friday night. Bryan Haar then doubled to right field to drive all the runners home and stretch the margin to 4-0.

The Toreros added two more in the sixth. With two away, Brian Farris doubled to right-center and first base open the Owls elected to intentionally walk Sean Nicol. Chris Engell doubled into the right field corner to score both men and make it a 6-0 game. In the ninth, Engell drew a leadoff walk and Meador knocked a two-run homer to left for an 8-0 margin.

Rice was led by junior second baseman Brock Holt's two hits, including a double to start the game. The Owls threatened for runs with the bases loaded and one out in the third, but USD worked out of the jam with a ground out double-play. Rice moved to 10-5 on the season. The Toreros improved to 9-9 overall.

The Owls next host longtime rival Texas at Reckling Park on Tuesday (Mar. 17). Rice baseball is picking that St. Patrick's Day to "Think Green" and recycle. The first 1,000 fans at the game against the Longhorns (6:30 pm) will get a green Rice baseball hat. The Owls are also going to wear green hats that night, which the players will then sign and auction off on RiceOwls.com. Fans will also receive green Mardi Gras beads from Methodist Hospital and get to participate in a number of activities that promote recycling.