The Natalia Mustangs dropped a crucial road game last Friday evening in LaSalle County versus the Cotulla Cowboys. Natalia was edged 7-6 offensively and surrendered just one defensive error compared to two by the Cowboys. Unfortunately, it was the home squad Cowboys who were able to produce timely hits when they had runners pushing them to a 6-1 victory.
Natalia used two pitchers during their road loss to the Cowboys. Castro pitched the first 2.0 innings, as he allowed five hits, two walks, and three runs, two of which were earned. Manuel Garcia relieved him and pitched the final 4.0, allowed two hits, walked one, struck out six and allowed three earned runs.
Cotulla was able to jump on the Mustangs early. They used a double, a single and two ground-outs to take an early 2-0 lead.
The Cowboys added a run in the 2nd and one in the 5th to account for a 5-0 lead on the Mustangs.
The lone run for Natalia came in the top of the 6th with two outs. Castro was able to double before scoring thanks to a Garcia single.
Cotulla finished off Natalia with a pair of runs in the 6th which came from a HBP and a walk to take the 6-1 ball-game.
Natalia stranded a total of four runners on during their 7.0 inning loss.
At bat: Diego Zapata 0-2, Garcia 1-3-1RBI, Castro 2-3-1run scored, Joel Mendez 0-3, Matt Contreras 1-3, Gavin Martinez 0-2, AJ Felker 1-2, Uriel Arellano 1-3 and Jeremiah Gomez 0-3.
Upcoming Games
Natalia was open on press night. They resume 30-3A action on Friday as they Dilley Wolves come to town. Natalia will then travel to Rival Lytle on April 16th to face the Pirates.
By Eric Smith