The men’s baseball team took a page from their own history book last weekend and started the season by sweeping a three-game series against the Tougaloo Bulldogs, repeating a feat they accomplished during their first weekend of play in 2004.
This time, it was marketing junior David McChesney who stood out, finishing the weekend Gulf Coast Athletic Conference series with three homeruns and 14 RBIs.
“I was just seeing the ball really well,” McChesney said. “I was on a roll this weekend, and I was glad to help my team out as much as I did.”
Starting pitcher Chucky Benach, English senior, earned Friday’s 19-1 win after striking out six Bulldog batters and pitching three hitless innings.
Trey Campeaux, biology freshman, and Alex Wolf, management freshman — two of 13 new freshmen making their debut with the Wolfpack this season — also pitched during Friday night’s game. Campeaux earned one run and gave up four hits during his three innings on the mound. Wolf, who pitched the final inning of the game, gave up a single hit.
The ‘Pack clinched Friday’s win in the second inning, when they scored 10 runs. Shortstop Taylor Domengeaux, business sophomore, brought in two runs with an RBI-single and centerfielder Bobby Alvarez earned one hit, two RBIs and scored one run.
Domengeaux continued his hitting streak during Saturday’s 12-2 win during the first game, adding two hits and two more RBIs.
Mike Kelly earned the win for the ‘Pack, pitching three innings and striking out seven Bulldog batters.
McChesney’s third homerun of the day led the team to an 11-6 victory in the ‘Pack’s second game, giving business freshman George Smith his debut victory. Smith struck out five batters in three innings. Eric Walsh, international business junior, finished the game, striking out three batters and retiring six.
Matt Wendt, international business senior and Mike Kelly, management senior, both scored two runs each.
Wendt says last weekend’s wins were a great way to start the season.
“It’s always important to start the season off right,” Wendt said. “It gives the new freshman confidence.”
Head baseball coach Gerald “Gee” Cassard was optimistic about the win, but said that the team still needs to focus on their bullpen and defense.
“We’re still young and still have to continue to get better,” he said. “Hopefully it’s a sign of things to come.”
McChesney said the three wins will help the ‘Pack boost their confidence as they continue their season against third ranked Belhaven College this weekend at Segnette Field.
“I think getting off to a good 3-0 start was important,” he said. “This weekend will be a real test because Belhaven is known for being a good team.”
The series kicks-off Friday, Jan. 30 at 6 p.m. and continues Saturday, Jan. 31 with a 1 p.m. doubleheader.
“It’s just the beginning,” Cassard said. “Anytime you can start the season 3-0, it’s a good thing.”
Rachel Strassel can be reached at [email protected].
Tougaloo’s Warren Mason bunts in their loss to the Wolfpack on Saturday. (Photo by Dan Helfers/The Maroon)
