The New Orleans Privateers lost 4-3 to the McNeese Cowboys on Apr. 2 in an extra-innings baseball game at Maestri Field. The Privateers loaded the bases with two outs in the bottom of the 11th inning but were unable to score, ending their comeback attempt.
This close contest highlights both teams’ determination and sets the stage for a competitive series between New Orleans and McNeese.
Hayden Stringfellow broke a 3-3 tie for McNeese in the top of the 11th inning with a line drive home run over left field. In response, Eric Nachtsheim returned to pitch for McNeese and faced pressure as Dathan Cummings walked and Eli Tidwell singled, advancing on a wild pitch. Owen Smith then drew a walk to load the bases before Nachtsheim struck out the final batter, securing his fourth win of the season after striking out ten batters over five innings.
Both teams scored early, with Marcus Heusohn driving in Bryce Fontenot for McNeese’s first run and Jayden Adcox responding for New Orleans by reaching base four times throughout the night. The Cowboys regained their lead due to an error before New Orleans responded with two runs in the sixth inning—Cummings walked to tie it up, followed by Tidwell drawing another walk that gave them a brief advantage.
McNeese tied it again in the seventh when Fontenot singled home Daniel Pinkerton. Despite having runners on base multiple times—including runners on corners with one out in tenth—the Privateers could not capitalize against strong pitching from Nachtsheim and his teammates, who combined for eighteen strikeouts.
Tidwell finished three-for-five with an RBI and run scored while Adcox collected two hits. Reid Leonard started for New Orleans, pitching into the seventh inning while allowing two earned runs (three total) alongside five strikeouts. Lane Alack matched his longest outing this season at four-and-a-third innings pitched.
The series is set to continue Friday evening at Maestri Field.
