Defensive miscues plagued Tompkins Cortland Community College as the Panthers fell to Erie Community College 13-2 in five innings and 8-2 on Monday at Erie Community College, dropping to 3-13 overall and in Region 3 play while Erie improved to 12-12 overall and 11-5 in region. TC3 committed eight errors in the opener, leading to a lopsided result despite an early lead.
The Panthers struck first in Game 1, scoring twice in the opening inning as Elizabeth Martin singled and came around to score, while Matisyn Lord added the only other hit and run. Erie responded immediately with five runs in the bottom of the first, then broke the game open with eight runs in the third inning. Of the 13 runs allowed by TC3, only two were earned, highlighting the impact of defensive struggles.
In Game 2, Erie again jumped ahead early, scoring five runs over the first two innings to take control. Tompkins Cortland trimmed the deficit with two runs in the sixth, but could not rally further. Peyton Swartwout led the Panthers with two hits, including a double, and pitched a complete game, allowing four earned runs while striking out eight. She closed strong, retiring the final two innings without allowing a baserunner. Lord continued her consistent play with a hit and RBI, recording a hit in both games.
Tompkins Cortland returns to action Tuesday at Jefferson Community College as the Panthers continue their Region 3 schedule.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].