Tigers hit, run their way to 13-3 victory over Arkansas–Pine Bluff

HOUSTON – The Tigers of Texas Southern University cruised to their second eight-inning win in as many days Saturday as they defeated Arkansas–Pine Bluff 13-3.
 
Keanu Van Kuren went 3-for-5 with five RBIs and scored two runs to lead the Tigers (17-30, 13-10 SWAC), who conclude Southwestern Athletic Conference play Sunday when they host Pine Bluff in the final game of this weekend’s series.
 
Van Kuren knocked a two-RBI single to highlight a five-run third inning that saw TSU go ahead 7-0. He added an RBI double in the fourth and a two-RBI triple in seventh inning.
 
Christian Sanchez accounted for three RBIs as he knocked a two-run home run – his 11th of the season – in the bottom of the first inning. He later knocked a sacrifice fly in the third inning.
 
TSU starting pitcher Mason Furlong struck out six batters over seven innings as he scattered seven hits and three earned runs. Furlong improved to 4-5 for the season.
 
Ryan Diaz stole three bases for the Tigers in the game, including a swipe of home as part of a double-steal with Tyson Thompson in the bottom of the fifth inning. TSU players stole five bases in the game.
 
The loss dropped Arkansas–Pine Bluff (6-38) to 2-19 in SWAC play.
 
The Tigers and Golden Lions conclude the series Sunday at 1 p.m.