PEORIA, IL – Bradley's first effort at winning its weekend series against Valparaiso (10-30, 3-11 MVC) did not pass without a lack of opportunities. The Braves (28-14, 8-6 MVC) put 13 runners on base with seven hits, four walks, a hit by pitch and an error, but stranded 11 of those runners in a 5-2 loss Saturday afternoon at Dozer Park.
Despite Saturday's setback, Bradley will get a second shot at its third Missouri Valley Conference series win of the season Sunday when the teams meet in another noon game at Dozer Park.
For the second straight game, Valparaiso designated hitter Blake Billinger delivered a run-scoring hit in the top of the first inning to give the Crusaders a quick lead.