James Moran, Editor of Tiger Rag
Todd Peterson appeared in shock as he walked off the mound on Saturday afternoon, looking around as if in search of answers as to what the heck just happened.
Now it is LSU that has more questions about its pitching staff, this time regarding the guy heavily counted on to be the hammer at the end of games.
Peterson inherited a 1-0 lead in the sixth inning of a seven-inning game and proceeded to be tagged for five runs before being hooked. Cal won 5-2 to even the weekend series in the early portion of a double header at Alex Box Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
LSU’s internet sensation of a closer has now blown two save opportunities in as many chances, both in relatively spectacular fashion. Over his last three appearances, Peterson has given up eight runs (seven earned) on nine hits in 2.2 innings.
The meltdown wasted two sensational outings from the pitchers who worked before Peterson. Cole Henry certainly gave LSU something to think about on the final weekend of non-conference play.
Moved from the bullpen to the weekend rotation, the cool, calm and collected freshman took his opportunity and ran with it. Henry shut out Cal over four innings of two-hit ball and didn’t walk a batter.
The strong outing made a compelling case for Henry to remain in the rotation next week against Kentucky, but that’ll depend on his health. Henry was removed from the game because his back tightened up.
Ma’Khail Hilliard took over in the fifth inning and looked much sharper than his previous outing on Wednesday. Hilliard had good life on his cutter and struck out two in a clean inning.
LSU, quiet over the first four innings, finally got on the board with one loud swing. Brock Mathis broke up the scoreless tie with a long solo home run to left, his third of the season.
Josh Smith homered in the sixth inning, his first of the season, but it wasn’t enough. LSU and Cal will play a rubber match 45 minutes after the final out.