CLEARWATER, Fla. – The Alabama State University baseball team opened its season on Friday afternoon as the Hornets dropped a 7-0 decision to No. 6 Louisville at Spectrum Field.
 
Alabama State (0-1) surrendered one run in the second and third innings, while the Cardinals (1-0) plated two runs each in the fifth and sixth, before getting one more run in the seventh for the win.
 
"Coming into the first game we knew we were up against a very talented Louisville team as well as a very good arm in Brendan McCay, who you will probably see in the big leagues one day," Alabama State head coach Jose' Vazquez said. "Our guys competed today but this was one of those days where you have to tip your hat at the job done on the mound."
 
Ray Hernandez, Hunter Phillips, Hunter Allen and Joseph Estrada accounted for the four Hornet hits on the day.
 
Tyler Howe (0-1) took the loss in 5.2 innings as he gave six runs (five earned) on nine hits, with three walks and three strikeouts. Patrick Coffin worked 2.1 innings in relief with three strikeouts.
 
Louisville registered 12 hits, including home runs by Colby Fitch and McKay.
 
McKay worked 6.0 innings to pick up the win. He scattered four hits and fanned nine. Bryan Hoeing pitched 3.0 innings in relief with two strikeouts.
 
Alabama State will look to bounce back at 1 p.m. on Saturday as the Hornets face Ball State at Spectrum Field.
 
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