Heading into the top of the sixth inning of its Big Ten conference opener against Rutgers, Penn State was desperately trying to build on a 1-0 lead and generate a spark against an opposing pitcher who had settled into a groove.
Looking for a clutch hit to provide much-needed insurance for starter Justin Hagenman, the Nittany Lions sent Braxton Giavedoni to the plate with the bases loaded and two outs in the fifth inning.
However, the sophomore struck out for the second time on the afternoon and Penn State once again squandered an opportunity with runners in scoring position.