Critical fifth inning proves to be difference maker in FIU’s 5-3 victory over Manhattan

Brett Shweky // Staff Writer

FIU (4-6) secured the second game of the doubleheader against the Jaspers (1-5) Saturday night, as the Panthers scored four-runs in the fifth to win 5-3. Both teams agreed to shorten the second game of the doubleheader to seven innings.

Senior Irving Lopez got FIU started in the fifth with an RBI single, allowing freshman Adam Sevario to advance home for the score. The Panthers continued to increase their lead, when Javier Valdes RBI doubled against Manhattan’s starter Tom Cosgrove (0-2) driving in Derek Cartaya for the run. Both Lopez and Valdes advanced home for the Panthers when Cosgrove threw a wild pitch.

Both freshman Valdes and Sevario went 3 for 3, providing six out of the eight hits for FIU.

Panther’s starter Andrew George (1-1) pitched through six out of seven agreed upon innings. The junior left-hander limited the Jaspers to three runs, six hits, and struck out five opposing batters.

Head coach Mervyl Melendez thought the overall pitching throughout both games was exceptional.

“I thought the team did an excellent job,” said Melendez. “To be honest, our starters have done a remarkable job keeping us in the ballgame. They’ve made key adjustments when falling down in the count and make smart decisions at key moments.”

Senior Zack Soria remained the catcher for FIU throughout both games of the double header. Coach Melendez said he originally planned to rest Soria going into the second game, however starting pitcher George felt more comfortable with Soria as the catcher.

“I was planning on him resting the second game. The original plan was to play JC Escarra,” said Melendez. “George feels comfortable with Soria. He asked me if there was a chance Soria can be behind the plate for the second game and I told him whatever you feel most comfortable with.”

Closer Chandler Raiden pitched a scoreless final inning for FIU, securing his first save of the season.

FIU and Manhattan will play the final game of the four-game series Sunday, March 5 at noon. Freshman Nick MacDonald will start in his second game of the season, as he attempts to pick up his first win as a college pitcher. Right-hander Joey Rocchietti will be given the nod for Manhattan, looking to split the series with the Panthers.

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