Space Cowboys Fall Short Despite Offensive Spark in Series Finale

Written by: MAi' Ghen Storm | Photo credit: Oscar Herrera, SFL Staff Photographer

The Sugar Land Space Cowboys (14-7) dropped a 5-3 decision to the Round Rock Express (9-12) on Sunday afternoon at Constellation Field, closing out the series with a loss.

Starting pitcher Misael Tamarez struggled early, allowing four runs in the first two innings. The Express capitalized on a bases-loaded jam in the first with a single from Sandro Fabian, followed by a wind-aided two-run homer by Derek Hill in the second.

The Space Cowboys finally got on the board in the third inning thanks to a solo home run from Corey Julks, but Round Rock added another run on a sacrifice fly later in the inning.

Sugar Land wouldn't go down without a fight. Jesús Bastidas blasted a two-run homer in the sixth inning to cut the deficit to 5-3. The Space Cowboys even threatened in the ninth with the tying run at the plate, but ultimately fell short as Jacob Amaya struck out to end the game.

Despite the loss, there were positive takeaways for the Space Cowboys. They turned a season-high three double plays and showcased strong defensive plays from several players, including a pickoff by César Salazar and a throw to nab a runner at first by Shay Whitcomb. Relief pitchers Forrest Whitley, Ray Gaither, and Dylan Coleman also impressed, combining for three hitless innings with five strikeouts.