From staff reports

Another night, another one-run game for the Mississippi Braves. It’s been the story of their season.

Former Ole Miss star Zack Cozart and Shaun Cumberland hit back-to-back two-run doubles in the bottom of the seventh inning Friday night to key a four-run rally as the Carolina Mudcats beat the M-Braves 8-7.

It was the 55th one-run game the M-Braves have played in this season, and the second in as many nights in this season-ending five-game series. They’re 29-26 in those games, and this was one that got away.

Greg Creek’s two-run double in the top of the third gave the M-Braves a 4-3 lead, and they added two more runs in the inning to stretch it to 6-3. Kody Kirkland’s RBI single in the seventh made it 7-4, but the bullpen couldn’t hold the lead.

Two singles and a walk loaded the bases for Cozart, who ripped a two-run double to left. Cumberland followed with another double to left to score two more runs and put the Mudcats ahead 8-7.

The M-Braves were retired in order by Carolina closer Sean Watson in the eighth and ninth innings. Watson earned his seventh save of the season.

Cozart finished the game 2-for-2 with a double and three RBIs, and Yonder Alonzo homered and scored two runs for Carolina. Jason Heyward went 3-for-4 with a double and two runs scored for the M-Braves.