Radford Edged By Virginia Tech, 4-3

BLACKSBURG, Va.--Radford pounded out 13 hits on New River Valley rival Virginia Tech, but it wasn’t enough as the Hokies edged the Highlanders 4-3 Tuesday night at English Field. The two teams split the season series, taking one game apiece. (Box Score)

The Highlanders were led at the plate by third baseman Shaun House and first baseman Mark Fleisher, who were 4-for-4 and 3-for-3 respectively. Catcher Dean Altavilla was 3-for-4 as well. In all, Radford stranded eight runners in the effort.

RU (20-22) struck first, scoring Fleisher, who reached on a double to the right centerfield fence, scored on a wild pitch in the top of the fourth inning. Virginia Tech retaliated in the bottom of the fourth when third baseman Chris Staton hit a solo home run over the left field wall.

The Hokies (26-21) added two more runs in the bottom of the fifth, the first coming on an RBI single to center field by shortstop Warren Schaeffer that scored centerfielder Sheldon Adams. RU starter Justin Tubb then hit first baseman Sean O’Brien with the bases loaded to score Schaeffer.

The Highlanders closed within one in the top of the sixth when third baseman Shaun House singled up the middle, scoring left fielder Kellen Wohlford, who had reached on a single to centerfield.

Virginia Tech scored its fourth run on a sacrifice fly to left field by Schaeffer that scored right fielder Matt Kalish.

RU again closed within one when designated hitter David Landman grounded into a double play that allowed Fleisher to score from third in the top of the eighth.

Tubb pitched six innings, giving up four earned runs on six hits while striking out three, taking the loss to fall to 4-7. Cory Koliscak threw two two perfect innings of relief for the Highs.

Virginia Tech starter Josh Biber went five complete innings, allowing one earned run on seven hits while striking out three to earn the win and improve to 5-0. Nicky Bowers pitched the ninth inning, allowing one hit and noe runs for his fourth save of the year.

The Hokies collected six hits, with no player tallying more than one hit.

Radford will host Old Dominion Wednesday at 3:00 pm before heading to Rock Hill, SC Friday for a key three-game Big South series against Winthrop. First pitch Friday is set for 7:30 pm. Virginia Tech will host Campbell Wednesday at English Field at 7:00 pm.