Griffins handed three losses in opening weekend

Mount Berry, Ga. - After losing their first two games to an undefeated Berry College team, Fontbonne baseball found themselves trailing 5-0 in the top of the ninth inning.

Berry wanted to ensure a win and brought in a new pitcher in the top of the ninth, but the Griffins had a different idea. Leadoff batter Ethan Boyer got behind in the count 0-2 on a before getting a single through the left side right past the third baseman. Next up was Steve Belovich who lofted a hit up the middle for two on and no outs. Heavy-hitting Ben Greenway reached first on an error as the Berry shortstop couldn't quite handle the ball, allowing the Griffins to get on the scoreboard with Boyer crossing the plate.

Carel then punched a single in the gap to left for Fontbonne's second run of the inning. Tanner Carter stepped to the plate with runners on first and second with zero outs. The senior was hit by a pitch, loading the bases. Patrick Shuff hit a deep ball to left field for the sacrifice fly, allowing Greenway to score. With one out, Berry brought in a new pitcher. Ethan Borrowman hit another sacrifice fly and RBI for the Griffins, putting pressure on the Viking defense.

Down by one, Devon Tolan hit a single to through the left side, allowing Carter's pinch runner, freshman Jonathan Hoevelmann to take second base. Unfortunately with two outs, the Griffins couldn't secure the comeback win.

Borrowman and Tolan each went 2-3 on the day with Borrowman adding a stolen base. Brendan Beck suffered his first loss of the season as he walked seven and allowed two runs on 21 batters.

Fontbonne returns to St. Louis for their home-opener at Shaw Park this weekend. The Griffins host Millikin University at noon Saturday, February 27th followed by a doubleheader starting at noon on Sunday.

Game 1 Box (L 6-4)

Game 2 Box (L 16-7)