Missouri State contained Purdue, who is ranked top hitting team in the country with a .376 batting average, to only four runs, but could not keep up after an early deficit as MSU lost 4-2 at Hammons Field tonight.

Bears pitcher Clay Murphy struck out eight Boilermakers within seven innings despite Purdue’s three runs in the first three innings to give the visitors the upper hand until the end.

Overall, it was a slow moving game with barely any exciting plays. But shooting baseball was the perfect excuse to be outside in 80 degree weather on a school night.

Tonight was student appreciation night at Hammons Field. All MSU students who showed their ID card were admitted free.

Purdue senior David Miller makes a back-peddling catch on a pop fly ball on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 at Hammons Field.

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MSU senior Brent Seifert misses a line drive along third base on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 at Hammons Field.

MSU assistant coach Brent Thomas yells to the outfielders on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 at Hammons Field.

Purdue junior Kevin Plawecki high-fives Cameron Perkins who hit a homerun on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 at Hammons Field.

Fans reach onto the field for a foul ball on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 at Hammons Field.

Several MSU players say a quick prayer after their loss on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 at Hammons Field.