Hilltoppers power their way to a win over Texas A&M-International
LAREDO, Texas - The St. Edward's baseball team was out hit by Texas A&M-International Friday afternoon, but they put more runs across the board and won the game, 9-6.
St. Edward's (13-10, 12-7 HC) got out to an early lead against Texas A&M-International (10-11, 9-9 HC). The Hilltoppers started the scoring in the second inning with a pair of runs. Shortstop Jeremy Houser and center fielder Dylan Schuch drove in these two runs.
The Hilltoppers struck again in the third inning. After first baseman Dexter Moreno reached on a walk, left fielder Justin Shufelt blasted a two-run home run to right field.
St. Edward's tacked on three more runs in the fifth inning. Catcher Drew Kimball got things started with an RBI single to right field. Right fielder Mike Hancock followed this up with an run-producing grounder to shortstop. Third baseman Robert Hays capped things off with an RBI sacrifice fly.
Two more Hilltoppers cross home plate in the sixth inning. Second baseman Drew Cross launched a solo home run to left field and Shufelt notched an RBI double.
This was the end of the scoring for the Hilltoppers. St. Edward's was able to withstand a five-run ninth inning from Texas A&M-International to hang on for the 9-6 victory.
Shufelt led the way for the Hilltoppers, going 2-5 with three RBI's and a run scored. Cross went 2-5 with an RBI and a run scored. Kimball was 1-4 with an RBI and two runs scored.
On the mound for the Hilltoppers, Bret Friemel (5-1) went six strong innings, giving only one run and striking out seven batters.
The Hilltoppers will be back in action tomorrow to conclude this weekend series with Texas A&M-International. The teams will play a doubleheader and the first pitch is set for 1 p.m.