Terps drop first game against Spartans

Exactly a week ago, freshman Mark DiLuia took the mound against the Boilermakers in his first career weekend start, as a replacement for the injured Taylor Bloom. DiLuia went six innings, allowing only four runs, and gave the Terps a chance to win the ballgame. Yet, a lack of production offensive resulted in a 7-1 loss for Maryland.

Today, DiLuia put out an almost identical performance against Michigan State (16-21, 7-5), but the Terps’ offense faltered once again and the Spartans took the first game of the series 4-2.

The freshman right-hander went 6 ⅔ innings, allowing four runs, three being earned. DiLuia only struck out one batter on the afternoon, but was able to work his way out of a few jams to keep the Terps within striking distance.

Though the performance may have been worthy of a win, the Maryland (17-24, 3-9) offense could not hold up their end of the bargain. Despite striking first with an RBI single from Taylor Wright in the second, the Terps went cold.

A run on an error by Michigan State second baseman Justin Antoncic during a double steal in the sixth was all the lineup got for the rest of the contest, mustering up three total hits.

Spartans starter Ethan Landon was strong during his five innings of work, allowing only one run. A combination of Jake Lowery, Mitchell Tyranski and Riley McCauley pitched four scoreless innings out of the bullpen to dispel any chance of a comeback for the Terps.

Danny Gleaves, Chad Roskelly and Bryce Kelley led Michigan State’s offense, all three contributing an RBI hit.

Besides DiLuia’s work on the mound, reliever Ryan Hill’s performance was another bright spot for the Terps. The senior, whose appearance was only his second since returning from eligibility issues that held him out for the beginning of the season, allowed no hits in 1 ⅓ innings of work.

Game two of the series is tomorrow at 1:05 p.m., as the Terps look for a much-needed conference win.