Jennings pitched six innings of shutout
Evan Bland
Issue date: 3/26/08 Section: Sports
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The Nebraska junior left-hander pitched six innings of shutout baseball, striking out six batters and allowing just three hits in the Cornhuskers' 10-0 win over road-weary Northern Colorado.
In leading No. 17-ranked NU (18-3-1) to its second shutout of the season - and first since a 7-0 win over Northern Colorado on Mar. 10 - Jennings joked that he'll be looking for a little time in the cages today before the Huskers take on the Bears (7-16) again at 1:35.
"We'll see what happens," Jennings said.
More importantly, the Huskers received key contributions from a host of newcomers and took control of the game early with two runs in the second inning, followed by six more in the third frame to leave the outcome in little doubt.
Nebraska Coach Mike Anderson said he was pleased with the way the players came out and scored runs early, giving some of NU's freshmen a chance to see the field and gain valuable game experience.
"These nights happen, and when they do you try to make the most of them in terms of creating opportunities for other kids," Anderson said. "I fully expect to come out (today) and probably play a 4-3 game again."
UNC starting pitcher and former Husker Jon Klausing was rocked in his second appearance at Hawks Field this season, surrendering eight runs - seven earned - in just three innings of work. NU's six-run third tied for the most it had scored in an inning this season.
Tuesday's game marked the fifth of six games the two teams will play this season, with the Huskers winning the first five by a combined score of 40-9. For the Bears, the contest marked their 23rd of 24 consecutive road games to open the season.
"I know they have a tough road and it would take a lot out of you," said NU senior centerfielder Bryce Nimmo, "but they always show up to play and usually find ways to compete."
Nimmo led the Husker offense with a 2-for-3 evening, driving in two runs and scoring three more in Nebraska's first night game of the year. Junior Cody Neer - playing catcher for just the fourth time all season - added two hits and three RBI. His base hit to center in the third inning scored two runs and gave Nebraska an 8-0 advantage.
Anderson said the junior-college transfer's performance was especially key behind the plate, giving regular catcher Mitch Abeita a break at designated hitter. Abeita was 0-for-2 with an RBI.
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