Belmont hands MSU first defeat

Published 12:07 am Saturday, February 26, 2011

All good things must come to an end.

That includes Mississippi State’s five-game winning streak to start the season.

Dylan Craig hit a two-run, inside-the-park home run in the top of the ninth inning Friday to give Belmont a stunning 2-1 victory over Mississippi State.

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It was the Bulldogs’ first loss in six games this season and ended a dominating stretch in which they outscored their opponents 46-9.

Craig’s homer spoiled another strong outing by MSU’s pitching staff. Devin Jones allowed five hits and struck out five in eight innings, and took a 1-0 lead into the ninth. Derek Hamblen led off with a single, however, and Craig followed with his inside-the-park homer to put Belmont (3-3) in front.

“Devin really pitched well,” Mississippi State coach John Cohen said. “We left him out there because he was our best chance to get a ground ball effort. It is a frustrating loss because we really pitched it well today.”

Caleb Reed relieved Jones and retired the side in order, but the Bulldogs (5-1) were unable to muster a rally in the bottom of the ninth. Jonathan Ogden was hit by a pitch with one out to put the tying run on base, then Ryan Collins grounded into a game-ending double play on the next pitch.

Mississippi State’s only run came in the second inning when Daryl Norris scored on a double play. The Bulldogs had only six hits against three Belmont pitchers.

Game two of the three-game series is set for today at 2 p.m. at Dudy Noble Field in Starkville.