BOONE, N.C. – In another close Sunday afternoon outing in conference play, Appalachian State University baseball simply couldn't bring home enough runs against Arkansas State, dropping the rubber match 4-1 at Smith Stadium.
The Mountaineers (18-26, 7-14 Sun Belt) were led by Jared McCarver, who hit his first home run with the Black and Gold, while the Red Wolves (22-21, 10-11 Sun Belt) were able to plate two runners in back-to-back innings to secure the game.
McCarver was one of five Diamond Apps to get a hit on the day, with Matt Vernon, Tyler Stroup, Conner Leonard and Calev Grubbs joining him.
Both Appalachian's Luke Watts (L, 2-5) and A-State's Peyton Culbertson (W, 4-5) battled for four scoreless innings to begin the game with Watts tossing three no-hit.
The Red Wolves then broke the ice by getting two runs in the fifth and sixth off six hits total. Appalachian was able to respond with McCarver's leadoff jack to left field, but wouldn't be able to claw closer in the game.
App State's bullpen would only allow one-hit innings the rest of the way to give the offense a chance, starting with Reed Howell giving 2.2 innings of relief and allowing just two hits while striking out one. Matt Brill closed for App, pitching a no-hit ninth inning while getting one strikeout.
The Mountaineers will head back out on the road, finishing its season series with UNC Asheville down the mountain before heading to Troy for league play next weekend. First pitch on Tuesday, May 2 is scheduled for 6 p.m.
