CLEVELAND, Ga. (January 27, 2023) – The Truett McConnell University baseball team opened their 2023 season on Friday, where the Bears took down the Red Storm in a non-conference matchup with a final score of 9-2, inside the TMU Baseball Complex. 

PLAY-BY-PLAY 
The Bears fell behind early with the Red Storm scoring two runs early in the first inning (0-2). TMU responded with a Mikal Mascarello single up the middle and Tanner Griffith hit by pitch, followed by an Andrew Johnston walk to load the bases. A double down the right field line from Jake Edwards scored two, combined with a Caleb Ramsey walk to put the Bears ahead (3-2).  In the bottom of the third, TMU sparked the inning with a Caleb Gentry single, while a ball misplayed by the left fielder hit by Matthew Redmond scored three (6-2). The Bears collected their final runs of the day in the bottom of the fourth, starting with a Mascarello and Tanner Griffith walk. Tyler Gray held his own from the mound, along with added help from Marshall Hongkham, Jonathan Joiner, John James, Hank Simonds and Ben Glines. A double to center field from Johnston scored two, paired with a sacrifice fly from Edwards to put the lead out of range. TMU had an opportunity to score again in the bottom of the eighth when a Griffith single and Johnston walk put runners in scoring position, but the final score ultimately remained 9-2. 

LEADERS
Edwards led the way offensively, going 1-2 at the plate with four clutch RBIs. Mascarello and Gentry followed going 2-4 at the plate, while Mascarello tallied two runs and Gentry tallied one run. Griffith was 1-3 at the plate and recorded three runs. 

Pitcher Tyler Gray collected the first win of the season, recording two strikeouts and only allowing two hits over five innings.

UP NEXT
The Bears remain in the TMU Baseball Complex tomorrow Saturday, January 28, for a non-conference double-header. Game times are set for 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.