The Commodores took a 1-0 lead into the ninth inning before the Flames rallied for 2 runs in the top of the inning to win the game. Sophomore Mike Minor (2-1) pitched a complete game giving up 2 runs on 5 hits and 3 walks while striking out 6.
"We spoiled a good effort," said Vanderbilt head coach Tim Corbin "He pitched good enough to win. The game reminded me of last year's Friday night game when some of the same stuff happened in the ninth, the difference was we put an end to it. Unfortunately Carr took a good swing off a fastball and hit it over Dom's head."
The Flames got a great effort from their starting pitcher, Grant Kohlstaedt (2-1), who also pitched a complete game giving up just 1 run on 6 hits and 3 walks while striking out 7.
The Commodores offense just could not ever seem to get it going on the day. They were able to push a run across in the bottom of the fourth when Brad French drove home Ryan Flaherty on a fielder's choice. That would be the only run the Commodores would get on the afternoon.
"We deserved to win the game pitching and defense wise, but not offensively," said Corbin. "I just didn't think we put together good at-bats."
The Flames offense was completely shut down until the top of the ninth inning. McGuiggan led off the inning with a bunt single. Rubio followed with a sacrifice bunt that advanced McGuiggan to second base. Altavilla was the next batter to the plate and he walked. Carr then doubled home McGuiggan and Altavilla to give the Flames a 2-1 lead.
The Commodores were able to mount any threat in the ninth going 1-2-3.
The only Commodores to have multiple hits in the game were center fielder David Macias and second baseman Ryan Flaherty, both with 2 hits.
Vanderbilt will play the second of a four game set against the Flames tomorrow at 4 p.m.