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Josh Cooper was a hard-luck loser in a 2-0 loss to TCU Friday night. (Photo by George Seeley)
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May 5, 2006
FORT WORTH, Texas - The University of Utah offense couldn't get anything going against Texas Christian University Friday night in a Mountain West Conference contest at TCU's Lupton Stadium. The Utes struggles at the plate wasted a solid pitching performance by senior Josh Cooper.
TCU (27-20, 13-4 MWC) managed just two runs on only six hits against Cooper in eight innings. But that was more than enough as Utah couldn't muster a run all night, dropping the 2-0 decision. Jake Arrieta out-dueled Cooper, leading the Horned Frogs to the win. Arrieta tossed a complete-game shutout, allowing just five hits and striking out 11 Ute hitters.
TCU grabbed a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first when Chad Huffman scored during a run-down. Cooper picked a Horned Frog runner off first base with two outs and Huffman at third. Huffman broke for home and crossed the plate before the third out was recorded.
TCU pushed across another run in the Andrew Walker led off with a double and later scored on an infield single. The 2-0 lead would be more than enough for Arrieta.
Utah (22-21, 5-9) threatened in both the sixth and the seventh innings, advancing runners to third base. But Arrieta was able to keep the Utes off the board all night. Utah straned seven baserunners - six of which were in scoring position prior to being left on base.
Utah shortstop Ryan Khoury went 2-for-4 on the night to continue his torrid hitting for the season. Unfortunately, his teammates managed just three other hits. The Utes only drew one walk against Arrieta.
Cooper also struck out 11 and he walked just two batters in the loss. His record dropped to 4-6 on the season. Arrieta improved to 10-4 for the Horned Frogs.
The second game of the three-game series is slated for 1 p.m. CDT Saturday afternoon at Lupton Stadium.
-UU-
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