UNM Baseball: Bullpen Blows Save as Lobos fall 3-2 Against San José State

San José State scored two runs in the bottom of the ninth inning to complete the sweep of the Lobos on Sunday, the third time in as many days in which the Lobos came up short by just one run.

UNM starter Nathaniel Garley was masterful over six and one-third innings of one-run baseball, with three strikeouts and two walks. Spartan starting pitcher Tevin Cadola shined as well, allowing just six hits over seven full innings of work, with two walks and nine strikeouts.

In what turned out to be a pitchers duel, the difference in the game came down to a single inning in which UNM’s bullpen was unable to secure a 2-1 lead by recording the final three outs of the game. Relief pitchers Robert Gasser and Christian Tripp each gave up an earned run in the bottom of the ninth, including a game-winning RBI single by San José State centerfielder Kellen Strahm to end the game.

Second baseman Justin Watari and third baseman Hayden Schilling were the offensive stars for the Lobos, with both players notching two hits apiece. Despite pitching well, Garley earned a no-decision for his 98 pitches on the day, while closer Christian Tripp was hit with the loss.

With the sweep, the Lobos are now ranked dead last in the Mountain West Conference at 8-14, and 15-25-1 overall.

The Lobos head south to take on New Mexico State in a one-game series on Tuesday before returning home for their final conference homestand of the season against San Diego State.