Panthers Edge Radford Baseball

RADFORD, Va. -- High Point held Radford to one run on five hits to earn a 2-1 Big South Conference victory Saturday afternoon at Dedmon Center Park.(Box Score)

HPU starter Matt Schlanger (4-4) was credited with the win, allowing one run on four hits while walking five and striking five out. Reliever Matt Kniginyzky secured his sixth save of the year, allowing one hit over the final two innings.

Radford starter Justin Tubb (2-4) allowed two runs on five hits in 7 1/3 innings. He struck out four batters and walked three in taking the loss. Relievers Casey Hodges and Cory Koliscak did not surrender a run in the final 1 2/3 innings for RU. Koliscak did not allow a base runner.

High Point (17-21; 6-8 Big South) broke open the scoreless pitcher’s duel in the fourth when second baseman Dustin Holtzman grounded out to third base, scoring centerfielder Chris Ramirez, who was it by a pitch to start the inning. The Panthers scored again in the fifth on a leadoff solo home run by left fielder Bobby Brown.

Radford (9-24; 4-7 Big South) attempted to rally in the seventh when catcher Nate Toth singled through the left side to lead off the inning. Following a strikeout, right fielder Matt Mantione hit a grounder to the shortstop, resulting in a force out at second on Toth. Mantione was called out on the play due to runner’s interference, ending the inning.

RU again tried to rally in the eighth starting with a leadoff walk by third baseman Jesse Ross. After Ross went to second on a wild pitch, pinch hitter David Landman hit a bunt single to move Ross to third. Landman was called out at second base after breaking on a wild pitch. Second baseman Alan Ashworth tripled to right centerfield, scoring Ross. Designated hitter Mark Fleisher hit a sharp grounder which the first baseman bobbled, but recovered in time to make the out and end the inning and the Highlander rally. RU was unable to get a runner aboard in the ninth.

Radford scattered its five hits among five different players, with Ashworth leading the way at 1-for-3 with and RBI. Landman was 1-for-1. The Panthers also spread out their hits, with Brown and shortstop Jeremy Neyra each posting a 1-for-3 mark. Brown and Holtzman each had an RBI.

The teams will meet Sunday for the final game of the three-game set. Radford is scheduled to start Fleisher (2-5) on the mound. High Point will throw Bob Helman (0-4). First pitch is at 1:00 pm