Miami, FL – Robert Sotolongo redeemed himself from an early game fielding error blasting an uplifting grand slam to help FIU torch Marshall 11-3. The win over the Thundering Herd finally ended a painful 11-game losing streak improving their record to 8-12. They opened conference play on their fifth weekend of the season and are poised to take the series on Sunday.
— FIU Baseball (@FIUBaseball) March 20, 2022
Ryan Cabarcas faced off against Patrick Copen in a bout that saw neither pitcher last past the second inning. Richie Pena picked up where Cabarcas left off tossing three scoreless innings with assistance from David Eckaus who weaved four effective frames in relief. Florida International’s pitching staff put up its best performance since its series opener versus Jacksonville on March 11.
Early struggles, momentum shifter
Got some @RylanHurst base path reactions too 😼 https://t.co/xvP7iJhFZ1
— FIU Baseball (@FIUBaseball) March 20, 2022
B7 | The Herd third baseman throws it into right field!!!
Both Panthers will score!
FIU 11, MU 3#PawsUp 🐾 | #PantherPride
— FIU Baseball (@FIUBaseball) March 20, 2022
Closing Thoughts
Finally, the losing streak ends! It’s been a real rough stretch of games for the Cats. The hitting wasn’t really the issue but the pitching has been a real stinker. It was great to see the staff finally step up. I can’t imagine the mood in the clubhouse leading up to today’s game. Kudos to the squad for staying hungry. For several contests, they put up quite the fight only to walk away with the loss. The W proved painfully illusive heading into C-USA play.
FINAL | PANTHERS WIN!!!!!#PawsUp 🐾 | #PantherPride pic.twitter.com/jOF4IH0z53
— FIU Baseball (@FIUBaseball) March 20, 2022
Tasting victory for the first time in almost a month (Feb. 25 versus Seton Hall) the boys can clinch the series in the rubber match. Who knows, maybe they bounce back and start winning. The schedule says otherwise with LA Tech next weekend and Old Dominion after that. Still, it’s baseball. Anything can happen. With high morale, even the underdogs can pull off wins.
Gus Bus Award
Sotolongo’s grand slam was the difference-maker. Redemption for the defensive miscue? Check. Momentum shifting play? Check. Player of the game? Check.
You’re Killing Me Smalls
A relatively quiet night from Alec Sanchez although he did draw two walks and nearly lifted one over the fences in the fifth.
Photo | FIU Baseball
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