You’re not going to win many games when you don’t get on base. That proved to be true on Friday as Fresno State (9-12, 2-2) was no-hit in a 9-0 shutout loss to Mountain West foe University of Las Vegas, Nevada (UNLV).
It was UNLV’s first no-hitter since 2003.
What happened?
The Rebels got to Fresno State starter Jack Anker early. After getting a pop up, Anker allowed a single and then a two-run homer to right field to UNLV right fielder Dean Toigo. The Rebels would score one run in each of the next three innings including an RBI single from Toigo in the bottom of the fourth.
Anker went four innings, allowing five runs on eight hits, a hit by pitch and a pair of walks. His one punch out came to end the fourth inning. Bryce Armstrong took over in the fifth inning, holding the Rebels to their first scoreless inning on the night.
With one out in the top of the sixth, second baseman Eddie Saldivar reached on an infield error but the second baseman would be called out on the following play. Third baseman Murf Gray hit a ball caught on the warning track in center field. While retreating to first base, Saldivar missed the second base bag and was called out following a challenge from UNLV.
A leadoff walk from right fielder Bobby Blandford in the seventh inning became moot after catcher Justin Stransky grounded into a double play. Rebels starter Carson Lane finished with eight no-hit frames, striking out seven.
One bright spot for Fresno State was BJ Rodriguez, who pitched a scoreless eighth inning. It was the first appearance of the year for the lefty throwing outfielder/pitcher, a transfer from the College of the Sequoias.
Will Marquart replaced Lane to begin the ninth. Despite a walk from center fielder Sky Collins, the Bulldogs were not able to muster a base knock or get anything going.
What’s next?
The Bulldogs return to Earl E. Wilson Stadium tomorrow night for game two of the weekend series at Las Vegas as they look to get back on track. Fresno State will turn the ball over to Aidan Cremarosa. First pitch is set for 6:05 p.m.
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Follow Al Scott on X/ @AlScott1998. Cover Photo: Fresno State Baseball