Dillard Falls to McNeese, 14-0

LAKE CHARLES, LA– In a lopsided matchup at Joe Miller Ballpark in Lake Charles, Louisiana, the McNeese Cowboys showcased their offensive prowess, shutting out the Dillard Bleu Devils 14-0 on March 26, 2025. McNeese, now boasting a record of 19-5, demonstrated their dominance as they capitalized on every opportunity to overpower Dillard, who fell to 15-14.

The game remained scoreless through the first three innings, as both teams' pitchers kept hitters in check. McNeese's starter, Cooper Golden, pitched three solid innings allowing only two hits and striking out five. However, the fourth inning marked the turning point. McNeese exploded with seven runs, initiated by a series of strategic hits and capitalizing on Dillard's pitching missteps.

The highlight of the inning was Gage Trahan's RBI double to right-center, which set the tone for the Cowboys' offensive onslaught. Marcus Heusohn and Larry Edwards Jr. followed with RBI doubles of their own, and Mack Brousseau contributed with a two-RBI single, adding to the mounting pressure on Dillard's pitching staff.

The fifth inning saw McNeese continue their scoring spree, racking up six more runs. Larry Edwards Jr., who had a standout game, further extended the lead with a three-RBI double. Trahan and Easton Dowell also contributed RBIs, solidifying the Cowboys' commanding position.

Simon Larranaga, who homered in the sixth inning, added the final touch to the scoreboard, bringing McNeese's total to 14 runs. Larranaga's solo shot to left-center was the only home run of the game, capping off a remarkable performance by the Cowboys.

Dillard struggled offensively, managing only four hits throughout the game. Jorge Guerra, the starting pitcher for Dillard, managed to keep McNeese at bay initially but was eventually relieved by Danik Reed, who took the loss after surrendering five runs in the fourth inning. The Dillard bullpen was unable to contain McNeese's persistent offensive pressure.

McNeese's pitching was immaculate, with Alexis Gravel earning the win. Gravel, along with Eric Nachtsheim and Braedyn Cunningham, combined to shut out Dillard, striking out a total of 14 batters and walking none.

The game, attended by 894 fans, lasted just over two hours, showcasing McNeese's efficiency on both sides of the field. The Cowboys will look to maintain their momentum as they continue their season, while Dillard will need to regroup and address their pitching struggles to bounce back from this defeat.

-Bleu Devils-