Senior John Beck led the charge in the opener with a stellar complete-game performance, guiding the Eagles to a 5-2 victory. A three-run sixth inning, highlighted by a double-steal of home by Robert Del Buono, put the Eagles ahead for good.
In the second game of the doubleheader, pitchers Sean Cottrell and Zackary Bollinger teamed up for a remarkable one-hit shutout, propelling Eastern to a dominant 6-0 win. The Eagles showcased their offensive prowess by scoring two runs in the fourth, fifth, and sixth innings.
Beck, coming off an impressive All-MAC Commonwealth Second Team selection last season, demonstrated his veteran presence on the mound in the opener, tallying six strikeouts on less than 70 pitches. Despite challenging weather conditions, he exhibited excellent control and allowed only two unearned runs.
In the second game, Cottrell continued Eastern's pitching dominance, surrendering just one hit – a single in the first inning – while striking out three batters over 75 pitches. Bollinger sealed the shutout with a strong two-inning relief appearance, striking out two batters and keeping the Defenders at bay.
With a perfect 2-0 start to the season, Eastern looks ahead to their upcoming stint in Myrtle Beach for Spring Break. The team is set to compete in four games in South Carolina, commencing with a matchup against local foe Cabrini on Monday, February 26th, at 6:00 pm.
In other local DIII action
Cabrini 13, Cairn 3
Dustin Sutton collected two hits and scored three times to lead the Cavs at the plate. Zack Brook hit a solo-homer in the third. Hunter Kraiza recorded the win, tossing three scoreless frames while surrendering one hit. Eli Schooley took the loss, going 1 2/3 innings, surrendering six hits and five runs while fanning three.
