On Friday night Florida Atlantic University (FAU) rode a dominant performance from starting pitcher Trey Beard and a clutch defensive play in the eighth inning to secure a 5-2 victory over Fordham. Beard was electric on the mound, striking out a career-high 12 batters over six innings while allowing just two hits and one unearned run.
Beard set the tone early, striking out the side in the first inning despite allowing a leadoff double. The sophomore right-hander kept the Rams off balance, holding them hitless from the second through the fourth inning. He began to tire in the sixth but managed to escape trouble with FAU leading 3-1. Beard finished his night with six strong innings, improving to 2-0 on the season.
The FAU bullpen ran into trouble in the eighth when Fordham loaded the bases with one out. The Rams pushed across a run to cut the deficit to 3-2, but their attempt to tie the game was thwarted by centerfielder Marshall Lipsey. After a flyout to center, Lipsey delivered a perfect throw to the plate, cutting down the runner and preserving FAU’s lead.
With momentum on their side, the Owls added insurance in the bottom of the eighth. Nick Romano launched a two-run homer, his second of the season, giving FAU a comfortable 5-2 cushion.
Reliever MJ Bollinger pitched a flawless ninth inning to record his third save of the season, locking down the win for FAU.
FAU hitters Gabriel Garcia went 2-for-4 with a pair of RBI singles. Patrick Ward doubled, singled, and scored a run. Jake Duer recorded his 20th hit of the season, extending his hitting streak to eight games. Marshall Lipsey singled, stole two bases, and scored twice.
FAU pitchers Trey Beard (W, 2-0): 6 IP, 2 H, 12 K, Steven Andrews: 1.1 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 3 K, MJ Bollinger (S, 3): 1.2 IP, 0 H, 0 R
With the win, FAU continues to build momentum early in the season, showing strength on the mound, in the field, and at the plate. The Owls will look to carry this success into their next matchup.
