The Shockers lead Bradley 3-0 after three innings thanks to a two-run homer by shortstop Dusty Coleman.
Coleman tried twice to lay down a bunt with a runner on first but was unsuccessful. But on Rob Scahill’s third pitch, Coleman blasted an opposite-field shot to right-center.
I’m not sure I agreed with the bunt call anyway. You’re in the second inning with an ace-quality pitcher on the hill in Aaron Shafer. Yes, the Shockers have been struggling offensively lately, but I’m not one for taking the bat out of my No. 5 hitter’s hands.
Stephenson called for a bunt two batters later, with Josh Workman on first. Even though Tyler Weber hasn’t been hitting well lately, why not just have Workman steal there? He’s one of the fastest players on the team and chances are he makes it. Then let Weber hit a ball to the right side and get Workman to third, possibly finding a hole and driving in the run. Instead, Weber failed to get two bunts down then struck out looking.
I just don’t really like sacrifice bunting early in a game. That’s just me.