Lehigh University
Holy Cross
Lehigh keeps rolling with league doubleheader sweep
4/16/2005 12:00:00 AM | Baseball
In game one, Lehigh built a comfortable lead in the top of the second thanks to a four-run outburst. Shortstop Liam O’Connor drove home left fielder Andrew Smith with the game’s first run on a sacrifice fly. Joe Ercolano and Nick Bet each singled in runs in the frame, as the Mountain Hawks went up big.
Up by a 5-0 count in the top of the fourth inning, Smith jacked his league-leading eighth home run of the season to give the Mountain Hawks an insurmountable 8-0 lead.
The terrific run support proved to be more than enough for Lehigh starter Jack Muscalus, who improved his record to 4-1 on the season with a complete game, five-hit effort. The victory is No. 24 in Muscalus’ career, tying him with Mitch Smith ’79 for the all-time top spot in Lehigh’s record books.
Offensively in the opener, Andrew Smith led Lehigh’s efforts with a 2-for-3 performance, including three runs batted in. Second baseman Mike Sandonato was 2-for-4, scoring two runs in the win.
In the second game, freshman Joe Matteo ensured the day off for the Lehigh bullpen, as the right-hander tossed a complete game, four-hitter. The victory improves Matteo’s record to 3-2 on the season.
Leading 3-1 in the top of the seventh inning it was Smith who once again ignited the Mountain Hawks. For the second time on the afternoon, he belted a three-run homer to put the game out of reach. With nine home runs on the season, Smith is just one blast shy of tying Lehigh’s single season record of ten.
The Mountain Hawks and Crusaders renew acquaintances on Sunday as the two teams meet in another twinbill. First pitch of game one is set for noon from Tivnan Field in
