ABILENE– The Abilene Christian Wildcats put up a strong fight but ultimately fell short against Grand Canyon University, dropping a 7-4 decision at Crutcher Scott Field on Sunday afternoon.
Despite out-hitting GCU 11-8, ACU, now 1-2 in conference play, could not capitalize on key opportunities, while the Lopes used timely hitting and solid pitching to secure the win.
The Wildcats trailed early after GCU's Michael Diaz launched a solo home run in the second inning. The Lopes extended their lead with a three-run fourth inning, highlighted by a two-run homer from Diaz, his second of the day.
ACU responded in the bottom half of the fourth when Nick Arias blasted a solo home run to right field to get the Wildcats on the board. The offense continued to chip away in the later innings, with Diego Cardenas and Braden Regala sparking rallies, while Sam Hardcastle drove in three runs to keep ACU within striking distance.
On the mound, Cade McGarrh took the loss, allowing six runs on five hits over 5.1 innings. Caden Greanead and Chandler Benson provided solid relief, combining for 3.2 innings with only one run allowed.
GCU's Chance Key earned the win, working five innings while striking out seven, and Walter Quinn picked up the save, closing out the final 1.2 innings without allowing a hit.
ACU is home once again on Tuesday, taking on the highly anticipated and ranked #15 Dallas Baptist. Make sure to get your tickets at tickets.acusports.com.
