GAFFNEY, S.C.— Senior designated hitter Michael Ward belted a pair of three-run homers as 24th-ranked Francis Marion University defeated Limestone College 13-4, Tuesday afternoon (March 13) at Bob Prevatte Field in non-conference baseball action.

Francis Marion climbs to 17-8 with its fifth win in the last six games, while the Saints stand at 15-13.  Limestone is coached by former Patriot outfielder and FMU graduate Chico Lombardo.

Senior right-hander Brooks Sinquefield (2-3) made his first start of the year and picked up the win for FMU.  Brian Baugher was tagged with the loss.

Ward belted his long balls in the fifth and eighth innings.  Patriot center fielder Derek Kennamer, who had his 14-game hitting streak stopped on Sunday, responded with a 5-for-5 day that included two stolen bases and two runs scored.  Junior left fielder Justin Greene was 3-for-5 with a double and an RBI, and right fielder Nick Stewart was 3-for-4 with a double and a triple.  Shortstop Greg Phelps was 1-for-4 and extended his hitting streak to 11 games. 

After being shutout on Sunday by Columbus State University on three hits, FMU pounded out a season-high 19 hits on Tuesday.

The Saints struggled as the team managed only six hits. Limestone scored its first two runs of the game in the fourth, as designated hitter Tyler Midgett rapped out a two-run single.  The Saints’ final two runs came in the eighth on a single by Josh Izokovic.

FMU plays host to Chowan University on Wednesday at 3 p.m.