The path from the LaSalle dugout to the batter's box -- once a pristine, dark red -- turned into a collection of smudged footprints.
For the first five innings the Explorers batters were doing little except for returning to their dugout during Penn State's 7-3 win last night at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park.
LaSalle couldn't get much metal off of Penn State starting pitcher T.J. Macy and the pitcher who immediately followed him, John Karr.
"First, T.J. pitched great," catcher Rob Yodice said. "Ball had a nice sink on it, splitter was really effective, control was there and he got outs. Same thing with Karr."
Both Macy and Karr were expected to make an impact in either Penn State's weekend rotation or bullpen. But both have just begun their seasons.
Macy appeared in his first game last week after missing the first half of the season with a NCAA issue regarding his adviser. Karr had been out until two weeks ago after recovering from off-season bicep surgery.
"We're trying to develop them," Penn State coach Robbie Wine said. "Midweek baseball is to get those guys ready."
During Macy's three innings and Karr's two that followed, the hurlers combined to keep the Explorers scoreless, allowing one walk.
Macy has been throwing bullpen sessions all season, so his arm is looser than Karr's. But in only the second start of his collegiate career, the Idaho native was on a strict 40-pitch count.
On the other hand, Karr was pitching in his "spring training" -- though he said he felt great last night.
"[Yesterday] was a good day for me to get some work," Karr said. "This is me going out and trying to find my pitches and my velocity and just getting everything back in rhythm."
