Seven-Run Second Inning Sinks Highlanders

RADFORD, Va. -- Virginia Tech scored seven runs in the second inning to negate a one-run Radford lead and defeat the Highlanders 7-1 Wednesday evening at English Field. The Hokies won both games of the non-Conference New River series this season.(Box Score)

Only three of the Hokies seven runs were earned. Radford starter Michael Pingel (0-1) took the loss, allowing seven runs on five hits. RU used seven pitchers, the final six allowing just four hits between them in shutting down Virginia Tech in the final seven innings. Relievers Derek Creger, Brett Smith and Cory Koliscak did not surrender a hit.

Hokie starter Ryan Kennedy (4-4) earned the win, allowing one run on five hits in eight innings pitched. He struck out five and walked three.

Radford scored its only run in the top of the second inning to take a 1-0 lead. Right fielder Matt Mantione hit an RBI single through the left side to score third baseman Jesse Ross, who reached on a fielder’s choice.

Centerfielder Nate Parks hit a fly ball that fell safe and the bounced over the outfield fence for a ground-rule double that scored catcher Matt Foley. Shortstop Warren Schaeffer reached on an error, but his swing drove in Parks. A RBI-double to left field by left fielder Sheldon Adams scored designated hitter Jose Rojas. First baseman Chris Stanton, who reached on an error, drove in Schaeffer. Second baseman Matt Hacker then homered to left field, scoring Stanton and Adams.

Radford scattered its five hits among five different players. Left fielder Kellen Wohlford, catcher Nate Toth, shortstop David Landman, Ross and Mantione each had a hit with Mantione Collecting the lone RBI. The Highlanders fell victim to a rare assisted fly out. Second baseman Alan Ashworth hit a fly ball that Adams bobbled, but Parks made a diving catch off the bobble to turn away the Highlanders.

Hacker and Adams each had two hits for Virginia Tech, with Hacker tallying three RBI.

The Highlanders head to UNC Asheville for a three-game Conference series that begins Friday. First pitch is set for 3:00 pm. Virginia Tech will host an out-of-conference series against Marshall starting Friday at 7:00 pm.