Kennesaw State’s baseball squad fell 5-3 to Missouri State on Friday, slipping to a 1-2 start in their recent stretch.
Early Deficit Sets the Tone
The Owls generated 12 hits and drew three walks, but a two‑run opening inning by the Bears left them playing catch‑up for the remainder of the contest.
Offensive Firepower
Trenton Lyons provided a solo homer in the third frame, while Chris Cole and Shamaar McDuffie each collected three hits, underscoring the team’s offensive depth.
McDuffie’s fourth three‑hit game of the season added to the offensive tally, but despite the rally attempts the team could not erase the early hole.
Relief Pitching Holds Firm
Nolan Sliver surrendered four runs over three innings, prompting a bullpen reshuffle that saw Ryan Gold deliver two scoreless innings and earn his second consecutive shutout appearance.
Gold’s recent stretch of reliability has become a bright spot for the Owls, who also benefited from Cole’s 63rd career stolen base, a milestone that highlighted his aggressive baserunning.
The loss illustrates the fine line between hitting proficiency and timely execution, a lesson the coaching staff will aim to translate into future matchups.