Baseball opens season with loss to Rhode Island

N.C. State opened its 2009 baseball campaign Friday afternoon at Doak Field with a disappointing 11-8 loss to the Rams from Rhode Island. 

Who knows what caused the Pack's struggles. Maybe it was the weather -- the temperatures were barely in the 40s all afternoon. State held a lead throughout much of the game but gave up five runs in the eighth inning on its way to dropping the game. State had two runners on with two outs in the ninth down three, but a strikeout ended the game. 

Obviosuly a loss is never good to start a season, but it's Feb. 20. I'm not too worried. 

State has plenty of talent to rely on this season, both young and old. Two freshman, Pratt Maynard and John Gianis, both saw significant action in the opening game. Harold Riggins, also a freshman, came in for Pat Ferguson at first base late in the contest. 

State will take on Xavier Saturday afternoon and Santa Clara on Sunday. Both games are scheduled for 3 p.m.