ORANGEBURG, SC - The Claflin Panthers (4-3-1) got a strong start but some late inning struggles proved costly when the team took a 23-2 loss to the Francis Marion Patriots (10-2), Tuesday afternoon. After holding the Patriots scoreless through the first four innings of play, some miscues in the final three inning proved costly in the loss.
 
As a team, the Panthers played a solid game. The team recorded five hits with a pair of runs scored. As a team, the Panthers totaled five hits in the game with a pair of runs scored. Claflin freshman Chase Jackson had the best game, going two-for-four at the plate with a run scored. Sophomore second base Rashid Muhammad added a one-for-two effort with a run batted in (RBI).
 
Claflin freshman Xavier Campbell did the bulk of the work, getting the start and throwing five innings for the team. He record six strikeouts with just three runs allowed. The Panthers split the final four innings among four pitchers.
 
With the loss, the Panthers fall to 4-3-1 overall. The team will return to action next Tuesday, when they head to nearby Columbia, South Carolina to take on the Benedict Tigers.
 
For more information on Panthers baseball, contact the Claflin University Office of Athletics Media Relations at (803) 535-5548 or log on to www.athletics.claflin.edu.