Tigers overwhelm Arkansas–Pine Bluff 11-1

HOUSTON – The Tigers of Texas Southern University opened their final conference series of the regular season Friday with an eight-inning, 11-1 win over Arkansas–Pine Bluff.
 
Freshman pitcher Alex Olguin tossed his second complete game in as many weeks, as he scattered just six hits while striking out eight batters. He improved his season record to 4-2.
 
With the win, the Tigers (16-30) improved to 12-10 in Southwestern Athletic Conference play. Arkansas– Pine Bluff (6-37) fell to 2-18 in conference games.
 
TSU’s Victor Cruz and Nic Garza knocked two RBIs apiece in the game. Olajide Oloruntimilehin hit his team-leading 12th home run of the season in the bottom of the seventh inning; he went 2-for-3 with three runs scored, and also hit a triple in the game.
 
The Tigers wasted little time taking control of the game, as they plated two runs in the bottom of the first inning. Tyson Thompson led off the inning with a single, then moved to second on Victor Cruz’ sacrifice bunt. Thompson then came home when Christian Sanchez knocked an RBI triple down the right-field line.
 
Sanchez then came home when Keanu Van Kuren knocked a single up the middle.
 
Thompson and Ryan Diaz knocked two base hits in the game. Every player who batted for the Tigers got at least one hit Friday.
 
The Tigers and Golden Lions resume their series Saturday. First pitch is scheduled for 2 p.m.