But the Minuteman recaptured the lead in the sixth, as Harvard outfielder John O’Donnell—who had entered the game as a defensive replacement—learned firsthand why right field at Fenway Park is considered the toughest position to play in Major League Baseball.

With two outs and a runner on second, O’Donnell lost a routine fly ball in the sun that allowed UMass to tie the game 3-3. One batter later, O’Donnell failed to make a play on another catchable ball hit to right, allowing the go-ahead run to score.

The mishaps spoiled what had been a fine defensive effort up until that point. Earlier in the game, Harvard cut down three UMass runners at the plate, including one on a double steal attempt and one on a perfect throw from senior outfielder Joe Llanes after Kulak singled to left.

Before the defense failed him in the sixth, sophomore starter Barry Wahlberg was a true bright spot for Harvard. Wahlberg-who may find himself a spot in Harvard’s weekend rotation next year-had allowed just two hits through his first five innings of work.

“He throws hard,” Walsh said. “We’ve got to add a soft pitch to him. He needs to change speeds a little bit more, but it’s his first year throwing. He’s got a great arm, great velocity-he’ll be a strikeout guy for us.”

Notes

Senior Scott Carmack was unavailable yesterday because of a hand injury. Three different players manned the right field position in his absence. ... Senior John Farmer technically got the start for Harvard at first base yesterday, but never actually took the field. After striking out looking to lead off the top of the first, Farmer was replaced defensively by San Salvador. ... Harvard lost to UMass exactly one week after dealing the Minutemen a crushing 21-11 defeat at O’Donnell Field.