FLORENCE, SC - Chowan University built an early 6-0 lead and watched as 22nd-ranked Francis Marion University stranded 16 base runners and the Hawks went on to claim a 7-6 non-conference baseball win, Tuesday evening (March 18) at Cormell Field.
The squads will conclude their two-game series with a single game on Wednesday at 3 p.m.
Left fielder Zack Beasley and shortstop PJ Sadler each had two hits for Chowan (15-8). Sadler also had an RBI, while Billy Walling's two-run single highlighted a four-run third frame for Chowan. The Hawks also scored runs off a passed ball, a wild pitch, and a Patriot error.
Right-hander Brandon Hamlett (3-1) earned the win with 3.2 scoreless innings.
Catcher Bryan Brown was the lone Patriot with two hits, and he also scored twice. The Patriots (20-10) benefited from eight walks by Chowan pitchers and four batters were hit by a pitch.
Trent Knight's two-run single to center highlighted a four FMU rally in the sixth inning that cut the deficit to 7-6.
Senior lefty Brandon White (0-1) was tagged with the loss after allowing six runs (four earned). FMU hurlers issued eight walks and hit two batters.
