Tony Caldwell had three hits, including a home run, and drove in two runs to lead the Orange team to a 5-4 win in the fifth annual Orange and Blue Scrimmage Friday night at Plainsman Park.
Sophomore Kevin Patterson belted 11 home runs in the Home Run Derby competition, including a shot into the lights as first-year coach John Pawlowski looked on. Assistant coach Matt Heath won the Home Run Derby when he hit 10 in the final round, the only round in which he participated. Former All-American catcher Bobby Huddleston hit 16 home runs for the night.
"It's always fun to come back out to the park," Huddleston said. "It was a great crowd and a fun time. It was great to see some of my former teammates as well."
Grant Dayton earned the win on the mound in the scrimmage, tossing four innings and striking out five while surrendering just two hits and holding the Blue scoreless. Scott Shuman followed him for two innings and also held the Blue off the board, striking out five.
Paul Burnside was tagged for the loss as he allowed one run on three hits in four innings. Sean Ray threw two solid innings for the Blue, striking out three without allowing a hit. Jamie Drinkard was 1-for-5 with a triple and three RBI for the Blue team in the loss.
Preston Long pitched a scoreless ninth for the Orange to pick up the save.
What other former players had to say:
Todd Faulkner: "Coach Pawlowski is helping move this program forward. I think it is special how he's making sure that those of us who helped make Auburn baseball's past are still involved and I wish him and the team good luck in the upcoming season."
Colter Bean: "It's always nice to come back and spend time with former teammates and get to see the current players. Tonight was a really good time."
Steven Register: "Participating in the Home Run Derby was a lot of fun. I am thankful that I was invited back. It is always great to come back to Auburn."
Levale Speigner: "The Home Run Derby was a lot of fun. It was good to meet the new coaches. I am excited about where they will take the Auburn baseball program in the future.”
