How It Happened
Rhode Island played twice on Saturday, nearly rallying from an seven-run deficit against Marist before getting blanked by Stetson at the Hatter Classic. The Rams (2-7) lost 9-8 to Marist and 7-0 to the host Hatters.
Game 1 – Marist 9, Rhode Island 8
Marist (5-4) scored in each of the first three innings to build a 6-1 lead early before adding two in the top of the sixth to go up, 8-1. Rhode Island came roaring back with five runs in the bottom of the sixth, its biggest offensive outburst of the young season.
The rally got going with two outs. A leadoff walk for
Skyler Rapuano was followed by a strikeout and fielder's choice. With two down,
Rachel Zingerman and
Emily Power delivered back-to-back singles, allowing
Caitlin O'Leary to score the first run of the inning.
Leilyn Alvarez walked to load the bases, and
Cassie Swenson had a walk of her own to force Zingerman in.
Sami Villarreal singled to right to drive in Power, and
Ari Castillo drilled a two-run double to center to cap the rally.
The Red Foxes got one run back in the top of the seventh, which proved to be crucial. Down 9-6,
Vicki Viaclovsky led off the bottom of the seventh with a single. One out later, Zingerman singled to right. Power doubled to the gap in left center to drive in pinch runner
Gabi Lopez and put the potential tying runs in scoring position.
After a strikeout, Swenson reached on an infield single to bring Zingerman in and get the tying run to third base. However, a strikeout ended the game.
Game 2 – Stetson 7, Rhode Island 0
Stetson starter Marissa Baxter limited the Rams to five hits, four of which were singled. The Hatters (8-4) scored three times in the third an twice in both the fifth and sixth innings to provide all the run support she needed.
Rhody's best scoring chance came in the top of the third. Back-to-back singles by
Maddie Melice and
Leilyn Alvarez got the frame started. Melice moved to third on a flyout, and Alvarez stole second base to put both in scoring position with two outs. However, a foul out ended the threat.
Inside the Box Scores
- Juniors Rachel Zingerman and Cassie Swenson both had three hits and two walks on the day.
- Zingerman scored a pair of runs, while Swenson had two runs batted in.
- Senior Ari Castillo doubled twice, walked and had two RBI.
- Senior Sami Villarreal doubled, singled, walked once and had one RBI.
- Freshman Emily Power doubled, singled and drove in two runs.
What's Next
Rhode Island wraps up play at the Hatter Classic Sunday with a single game against Stetson. First pitch is slated for 12 p.m.
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