(Box Score) (Box Score 2)
AUGUSTA, Ga. (March 30, 2024) – Florida National University’s baseball team (16-16) stayed at .500 in the 2024 season, posting a split doubleheader against the Paine College Lions (8-13). The Conquistadors came out on top in game one for a stellar 6-3 victory in eight-innings but fell short of the mark in game two, losing 9-6.
Game one was a highly competitive match-up with both teams heading into extra innings tied at three runs apiece. Both sides scored in the first inning, with the Lions taking a one-run lead in the fifth. FNU was able to get back in front in the following frame before the Tigers sent the game to an eighth frame.
FNU eventually took a 6-3 lead in the top of the frame and held the Lions scoreless for a much-needed win. First baseman Yordangel Gonzalez recorded two runs in the victory, while Lewis and Jason Altuve combined for five hits. Pitcher Mario Benjamin went to work for 4.2 innings on the mound and notched six strikeouts. Jayce Kirkham closed out the game with just one run scored.
The Conquistadors were credited with five hits in game two and three errors. Jordan Lewis and Daniel Silgado executed doubles in the loss, as Lewis led the team with three runs scored. Silgado ended the contest with two hits and four RBIs, as the Lions capitalized on clutch pitching from Vladimir Lemos.
The junior from the Dominican Republic pitched all seven innings en route to four strikeouts and just three walks. FNU’s Brock Lambert struggled early, conceding seven runs in the first inning before Gavin Gonzalez took over on the mound. Gonzalez allowed the final two runs of the contest along with three strikeouts.
Up Next: FNU will be in Oakland Park, Fla., for a doubleheader versus the University of Fort Lauderdale on April 5.
