Paragould, AR. -- The Crowley's Ridge Pioneers played host to the Panthers on this two day road trip to Arkansas. The Pioneers were out seeking their first win on the season after losing their first seven. A leadoff walk and double later, Crowley's Ridge scored first to take the lead as junior pitcher, Aleq McMullin struggled to find his rhythm early. The Panthers would even the score capitalizing on a walk and two errors to pick up their first run of the game. McMullin found his rhythm and struck out five in his first start. With one out in the top of the fifth, Principia mounted their attack. Parker Davidson drew a walk and stole second allowing him to score on the Eddie Bargmann single. A few pitches later, Zach Grennie doubled in Bargmann. Stephen Strong, singled in Grennie and added all the insurance the Panthers needed. Grennie made quick work of the sixth with help from Ryan Eisenauer who nabbed his second base stealer on the year. Hannan was called in for the 7th and after two quick outs, a hit batsmen, and a pop up to short later, he recorded his second save on the season.
Stephen Strong was a pleasant surprise in game two. Making his first collegiate career start on the mound, he attacked the zone. He was extremely efficient and only gave up one unearned run in the fourth. Zach Grennie also made his first appearance behind the dish as the two worked well together. Down 1-0, the Panthers didn't panic, instead they worked the count and were more patient at the plate. Senior Jake Kearney led off the top of the 7th with a double. Jeff Ross made his first appearance this season in a critical pinch at bat and drew a walk. Will Adler, after fouling off a sacrifice bunt attempt, battled to a full count and eventually worked a walk that chased the starter from the game. Two more walks by Pioneer pitching gave the Panthers the 2-1 lead once again giving Hannan the save opportunity. Hannan struck out the first batter he faced and flew out the next two batters to earn his third save in as many opportunities.
He Said It:
Stephen Strong had this to say when asked how he felt in his first career collegiate win, "It was a little nerve-wracking at first. It just felt good to get the W for the boys. I was able to pound the strike zone. I wasn't trying to do too much, just throw it in the zone. It was great to get the couple runs in the 7th, the guys really won it for me."
Up Next:
The Panthers will wrap up their four game series against Crowley's Ridge tomorrow with the double header beginning at 11am.
