Panthers take 1-0 series lead over Manhattan

Alejandro Aguirre/ Asst. Sports Director

FIU kicked off a four game series at home this past Friday against Manhattan College who came into the series still winless. Things did not turn out better for the Jaspers especially with FIU right-hander Cody Crouse on the mound.

He had an incredible outing that led the way for the Panthers to a 7-2 win. This was Crouse’s first win of the season in which he pitched a one-hitter over seven innings. Overall, Crouse’s pitching stat line for the night is he gave up only two runs, walked two and struck out five batters. Freshman David Lee came into the game to relieve and secured the win by pitching two scoreless innings.  He closed out the game by striking out five batters.

FIU’s offense stormed out of the gates in the first inning as Jack Schaaf walked, stole second base and came around to score on Brian Portelli’s RBI fielder’s choice. Portelli was a huge contributor to the team, driving in three runs on the night. After taking command of the lead early in the game, the Panthers didn’t let up as they scored runs in the fifth and sixth inning on Portelli’s ninth double of the season. Portelli finished the game 1-for-5 with three RBI. Schaaf was 2-for-4 with an RBI.

The win puts FIU’s record over .500 at 5-4. They look to extend their three-game winning streak Saturday with a doubleheader and the series finale on Sunday against the Jaspers.