Republic’s struggles in close games continued Tuesday as the Tigers fell to Branson 2-1, despite a strong pitching performance from Caide White.
White allowed just two runs on three hits over six innings, striking out seven and walking five. But Branson’s Hunter Jones matched White’s effort and was a little bit better, limiting Republic to one run on six hits over 6 1/3 innings. Jones struck out four and walked three before giving way to Kyler Lankton, who recorded the final two outs for the save.
Devon Hughes provided Republic’s lone run with a solo home run to left field in the first inning. Branson tied the game in the bottom of the first, using a one-out walk and back-to-back two-out singles to even the score at 1-1.
The Pirates took the lead in the fourth inning when Aaron Strohm singled, stole second, and advanced to third when the throw from catcher Wyatt Woods got away. Strohm then scored on a groundout, giving Branson a 2-1 advantage.
Republic threatened in the seventh, loading the bases with two outs. Carter Nation walked, but pinch runner Jackson Taylor was picked off first base. Ryder Davis walked, and Garrett Lester laid down a bunt single, putting runners at first and second. Devon Hughes flied out, and Trace Harrington drew a walk to load the bases. Jackson Overstreet, who had two hits already, struck out to end the game.
Overstreet and Hughes each had two hits for the Tigers, who fall to 11-10 on the season and 2-3 in the Central Ozark Conference. Nine of the Tigers’ 11 losses have been by one run, and they have now lost three straight.
Republic hosts Carl Junction Thursday.