MONTGOMERY, Alabama - Bluefield State played opportunistic baseball, scoring four runs on three hits, and defeated No. 1 seed Xavier University of Louisiana, 4-1, in the second round of the Black College World Series.

The Big Blue scored two runs in the first on Tanner Brandon's RBI double to right center. Brandon then stole third and Gold Rush pitcher Blair Frederick wild pitched him home.  

Frederick, a left-hander, dominated the game, striking out 17. He allowed two runs on two hits, walked four, hit three and threw two wild pitches.

The Big Blue took advantage of walks by Xavier reliever Anthony Dumas in the seventh inning. A throwing error by shortstop Antonio Rodriquez scored Austin Stambaugh and JR McRee.

Big Blue pitchers Tanner Brandon and Kenrick Mendez were outstanding and kept the Gold Rush offense in check.

Brandon pitched seven innings, allowing one unearned run on four hits. He struck out seven and walked six.  After walking in Xavier's only run, Brandon escaped a bases-loaded situation in the bottom of the seventh.

Senior Mendez pitched two perfect innings, striking out two. He also got the first a-bat and hit of his collegiate career.

It was a gritty win for the West Virginians. Their record is now 13-11 for the season.

This first-ever Black College World Series is being played in Montgomery, AL, at Riverwalk Stadium, home of the Montgomery Biscuits, Double-A affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays.

SIDEBAR

Tanner Brandon's been having quite a time in this inaugural Black College World Series.

Before taking the mound against top-seeded Xavier University of Louisiana, he swung for the fences in Thursday's Home Run Derby.

Brandon tied for runner-up with Xavier's Danny Coleman, each hitting four in the final round. They finished one behind winner Nathan Harris of Florida Memorial.  

Next Up…

The Big Blue, 2-0 in the Series, advance to play unbeaten Florida Memorial Friday at 4 PM. Winner plays in the championship game Saturday.

The Gold Rush, 23-8, will play second-seeded Savannah State in an elimination game at 12:30.