UTICA, NY— The Utica Pioneers scored the only run of the game on an error in the second inning, defeating the Houghton Highlanders in a classic pitchers' duel, 1-0, on Thursday afternoon.
 
With one out in the second, the Pioneers hit back-to-back singles to place runners on first and second.  A sharp one-hopper looked like a sure double-play to end the inning, but the relay from second base skipped past the Houghton first baseman, allowing the game's only run to score.
 
Griffin Tubbs scattered eight hits over eight innings for the Highlanders, allowing only one walk and striking out one in the hard-luck loss.
 
Griffin Baur picked up his second win of the season, limiting the Houghton bats to only three hits and one walk, while striking out six over seven strong innings.  The Utica bullpen closed out the final two innings, shutting the door on a potential Houghton comeback. 
 
GAME VITALS                           
Score: Houghton - 0 | Utica - 1
Records: Houghton: 10-11 (5-2 Empire 8) | Utica: 7-14 (3-4 Empire 8)
Venue: Utica College Baseball Field, Utica, NY | Attendance: 65
 
KEY STATS:
>> Ben Closson, Nick Melchiore and Joe Gross each collected one hit apiece for the Highlanders.
 
COACH'S CORNER:
"This was a great pitchers' game.  [Griffin] Tubbs pitched incredibly well, and so did [Griffin Baur].  We made one physical mistake all day, and they took advantage of it.  It's hard to swallow, but that's life.
 
"I'm proud of how hard our guys played.  They approached the game the right way.  We made some big defensive plays; we just didn't get hits when we needed them.
 
"It's tough that we have to wait until Saturday to play, but we'll be ready.  I know every player and coach on this team is already ready to go." –Coach Brian Reitnour
 
 UP NEXT:
The Highlanders return to Utica on Saturday for a doubleheader rematch with the Pioneers.  Game times are set for 12:00 and 3:00 p.m.