GEORGETOWN, Texas – The Southwestern University baseball team was unable to overcome a late surge by Whitworth on Friday night, as the Pirates dropped a 7-6 decision at Rockwell Field.

Southwestern (0-4) led 3-1 after six innings, but Whitworth (5-0), plated five runs in the seventh to take a 6-3 lead.

Whitworth, which also is nicknamed the Pirates, added another run in the eighth to increase its led to 7-3.

The Pirates then attempted to mount a comeback in the bottom of the ninth inning.

Southwestern scored three runs in the final panel on a pair of Whitworth throwing errors. However, the Pirates stranded the tying run at second base after Colby Schmidt fouled out down the right-field line.

Collin Buckley (0-1) was handed the loss after giving up three runs in two-thirds of an inning.

Hugh Smith (1-0) picked up the win for Whitworth out of the bullpen after tossing 3.1 stanzas. The right-hander gave up two hits and three unearned runs, while striking out a pair.

Southwestern out-hit Whitworth 12-9.

Will Cates led the way with a 3-for-5 performance that included a triple. Cates also scored twice. Schmidt and Cole Kelly both registered a pair of knocks.

Jacob Kendra took a no-decision after hurling five scoreless innings. The righty gave up three runs, walked five and struck out three.

The Pirates will face a pair of opponents on Saturday. Southwestern will take on Pacific (Ore.) at 2:30 p.m. and No. 2 Emory at 6 p.m.

– SOUTHWESTERN –