The Hickory Crawdads had plenty of chances but couldn’t deliver the timely hit Tuesday night, falling 6-3 to the Augusta GreenJackets in the opener of a key six-game Carolina League South Division series at SRP Park.

Entering the week, Augusta trailed Hickory by two games in the second-half standings, making the series pivotal in the race for a postseason berth.

The Crawdads outhit the GreenJackets 9-8 but stranded 11 runners and finished just 1-for-12 with runners in scoring position.

Marco Argudin led Hickory offensively, going 3-for-3 with two walks to reach base in all five plate appearances. Daniel Flames added two hits and drove in two runs, while Yolfran Castillo, Angel Arredondo, Deward Tovar and Marcos Torres each collected a hit. Morel added the Crawdads’ other RBI.

Hickory’s pitching plans changed just before first pitch when scheduled starter Alejandro Chiquillo was scratched, forcing Aneudis Mejia into the starting role. Mejia (1-6) allowed two runs over two innings, including a two-run home run by Michael Martinez in the second that gave Augusta an early lead.

The GreenJackets added to their advantage in the fourth when Junior Garcia lined a two-run double, then Cooper McMurray snapped an 0-for-18 slump with a two-run homer in the sixth to stretch the lead to 6-0.

Kendy Richard started for Augusta but exited after 2 2/3 innings because of a high pitch count. Recently activated left-hander Luis Arestigueta took over and earned the win, allowing one run over 3 2/3 innings in his return from the injured list.

Hickory mounted a late rally, loading the bases in both the eighth and ninth innings. The Crawdads scored three runs in the final two frames, but Augusta reliever Styven Paez escaped both jams to preserve the victory.

Jake Jekielek gave Hickory a strong effort out of the bullpen, tossing 2 2/3 hitless innings while striking out four.

The Crawdads and GreenJackets continue the six-game series Wednesday night at SRP Park, with Moises Morales scheduled to start for Hickory against Augusta left-hander Carter Holton.