Box Score ELSAH, ILL. -- On a rainy and chilly night the Panthers baseball team celebrated the team's two seniors,
Zack Becker and
Robert Barnacle. Zack is finishing his third year as a Principia Panther. Joining the team during the 2011 campaign, Becker found some innings on the mound. His curveball has been a strength that allowed him to fool SLIAC batters. After only pitching 10 and 11 innings respectively in the 2011 and 2012 seasons, Becker was determined to fill a role besides just on the mound. In 2013, Becker has started 22 of 28 games behind the plate, while still managing to throw a career high 21 innings. Becker's determination to find more playing time has paid off. Barney has been a four year member of the Principia Panthers squad. In 2010 Barney was a defensive specialist appearing late in games to secure a victory. In 2011 he became a starter as he found a way on base with an OBP of .350 compiling 11 walks. Under new management in 2012, Barnacle earned his way back into the starting role at second base due to his defensive prowess. He tied his career high, 18 starts, and played in a career high 25 game. In 2013, Barney has been a great teammate and has taken on whatever role that has been asked of him. Barney has been a utility player and has seen time in the infield, outfield, and yes even the mound. Barnacle's quick wit and infectious smile will be missed. Thanks for all your contributions to the Panther baseball program and wish you the best of luck in the future.
As for the game the Panthers got off to a slow start surrendering 8 runs in the first two innings. Starting pitcher sophomore
Gavin Thomas struggled with his control early in the contest, hitting four battings in the first two innings. After making some adjustments on the mound Gavin settled in and gave up only three runs in the final four innings of the contest. Offensively the Panthers managed only three hits, but hit the ball hard as Westminster's defense made some stellar defensive plays. The game was played in a steady rain that gradually picked up intensity, therefore the game was called in the bottom of the 7th inning with Westminster leading 11-2.
