It was a group effort that got the baseball team their first win of the season today.
Seven Seawolves combined for eight hits as SBU (1-9) defeated Iona (2-8) 5-1 in their home opener at Joe Nathan Field.
“I think the guys played with a lot of energy and it was a good win,” head coach Matt Senk said. “It’s good to be back on Nathan field where we have a lot of success.”
After a slow start and just one run on an RBI walk, SBU broke the game open in the sixth.
Senior Tanner Nivins started the inning with a single up the middle, and promptly stole second base. Back-to-back singles from junior Anthony Italiano and freshman Austin Shives scored Nivins and junior Michael Hubbard, who reached first after getting hit by a pitch.
A double from sophomore Michael Roehrig sent Italiano home, and Shives scored off an RBI from fellow freshman Brett Tenuto.
The Gaels got their lone run and three of their four hits in the seventh, but could not make a comeback.
“It’s good to get a win finally,” Senk said. “We definitely needed it.”
Nivins led the team, going 2-for-3 with a walk and swiping two of SBU’s four stolen bases.
Freshman Chad Lee started and pitched three scoreless innings before being replaced by fellow freshman Tim Knesnik, who took the win.
“We’re glad to get the first one and looking forward to getting many more,” Senk said.
Stony Brook plays a four game series against Fordham this weekend – Saturday’s games are away, but Sunday’s doubleheader is at Joe Nathan Field. First pitch is at noon.
