Cactus Jack HBCU Baseball Has Day-1 Wins From Jaguars, Tigers, Panthers

Originally posted on FanNation HBCU Legends
By Kyle T. Mosley | Last updated 2/17/24

HOUSTON - Game 1 of the 2024 Cactus Jack HBCU Baseball Classic Tournament batted off with Southern University defeating Alcorn State 10-4 at Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas. The Jaguars left fielder Quincy Smith had four RBIs, two hits, and scored a run at four at-bats. Southern University pitcher Ranard Grace won the decision, with Jaden Brasseaux saving the game.

The Braves Reyfield Adams had four at-bats with two hits, a pair of runs scored, and a stolen base in the losing effort. Kewan Braziel received the pitching loss on the afternoon.

GAME TWO

The Texas Southern Tigers downed the Jackson State Tigers 9-5 in Game 2 of the Classic off two home runs from first baseman Jose Villalobos and four RBIs. TSU right fielder Rafael Gross added a pair of RBIs in the win.

Second baseman Shannon Martin had two bunts, and Jason Lazo and Jaden Jones brought in runs on sacrifice fly balls.

Home team pitcher Justyn Valdez received a no-decision. Adolf Castillo pitched the save with four innings of work after facing 14 batters.

JSU pitcher Garrett VanDeventer took the mound for four innings and surrendered five hits and five runs after facing 22 batters at the plate.

Jackson State's Davione Hull recorded two, and Rodney Hibler had an RBI in the loss.

GAME THREE

In Game 3, Prairie View A&M took advantage of strong eighth and ninth innings to gain the 10-5 victory over Grambling State. Center fielder Garrison Weiss notched three RBIs, two hits, and runs, while right fielder Michael Burroughs added two RBIs.

Panthers pitcher Michael Dews gained the win following five innings and battling 18 batters to yield only one run.

The Panthers posted a productive top of the eighth inning with three scores after Weiss doubled to center field, scoring Smith on the play. Next, Burroughs singled to left field for an RBI, with Weiss crossing home plate. Finally, Jonas filed out to center field, advancing Burroughs for an RBI.

Four additional runs from Prairie View A&M scored in the final inning, with Allen, Lathon, Davila, and Weiss scoring.

The Tigers Martavius Thomas had one homer to bring in three scorers. Grambling's Randy Reyes registered the loss after seven innings, allowing four hits and two earned runs.