Wichita State Eliminates Missouri

Top-seeded Wichita State (52-9) got its second consecutive strong pitching performance Friday in the NCAA Midwest Regional and eliminated Missouri, 9-2, in front of 4,480 at Eck Stadium.

Ben Thomas (9-1) gave up a two-run homer to Jay White in the sixth inning, but by then the Shockers already had built a five-run lead and were able to coast to their second victory in the tournament.

Thomas gave up five hits before he leaving after 6 1/3 innings. Marc Bluma came on in relief and limited Missouri to only one hit over 2 2/3 innings.

Wichita State Coach Gene Stephenson was pleased with the Shockers’ pitching, and will have Brandon Baird (6-5, 3.91 ERA) ready for today’s game against Fullerton.

“We’re right where we need to be,” Stephenson said. “We’ve got a well-rested bullpen and a good starter ready to go tomorrow. But they still have to go out and perform well. Baird pitches well in big games, and if he’s pitching well, he’ll be tough to beat.” Jeff Ryan, who had three hits, and Randy Young homered for the Shockers.

Indiana 10, Delaware 8--The Hoosiers (43-17) eliminated Delaware (44-12). Brian Partenheimer (9-2) won despite giving up six runs on 10 hits over 7 1/3 innings.