Pilots Dominate Bulldogs with 17-1 Victory in Series Opener

SHREVEPORT, La. – The Louisiana State University Shreveport (LSUS) Pilots opened their 3-game series against McPherson College with a commanding 17-1 victory in seven innings on Friday afternoon at Pilot Field.

The game started with a highlight for McPherson, as Colt Sussex-Uphold launched a solo home run in the top of the first inning to give the Bulldogs an early 1-0 lead. However, the Pilots quickly responded in the bottom of the first inning, scoring seven runs to seize control of the game.

Anthony Swenda sparked the Pilots' offensive explosion with an RBI single that brought Josh Gibson home, tying the game. McPherson's defense faltered with two critical errors, and LSUS capitalized with clutch hitting to build a 7-1 lead by the end of the inning and never looked back.

Jose Sallorin led the way offensively for LSUS with three RBIs, while Vantrel Reed and Ian Montz both scored three runs and recorded two hits apiece. Swenda, Ryan Davenport, Austin Gomm, Reed, and Montz each contributed RBIs, showcasing the depth of the Pilots' lineup.

On the mound, left-handed pitcher Isaac Rohde delivered a stellar performance for the Pilots. The southpaw pitched five innings, allowing just one hit and one run while striking out nine batters and walking two. McPherson's offense, aside from Sussex-Uphold's home run, struggled to find momentum, managing only two hits in the game.

McPherson's Levi Betts was tagged with the loss after facing nine batters and allowing seven runs in the first inning.

LSUS will look to carry their momentum into Saturday's doubleheader against the Bulldogs at Pilot Field. First pitch is scheduled for noon.

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