Published: 6/4/2021 10:43:01 PM
Modified: 6/4/2021 10:42:58 PM
KEENE, N.H. — The Upper Valley Nighthawks began the New England Collegiate Baseball League campaign with a 9-0 victory over the defending champion Keene Swamp Bats on Friday night at Alumni Field.
The Nighthawks grabbed a 3-0 lead in the second inning. They tacked on one run in the fifth and five more in the seventh.
Designated hitter Parker Haskin (Elon) went 2-for-2 at the bottom of the batting order, with two walks, three RBIs and one run. Left fielder Andrew Walker (Xavier) finished 1-for-2 with three walks and two runs.
On the mound, Upper Valley surrendered just two hits all game. Jack Keenan (Marist) started and pitched four innings, giving up one hit and three walks while striking out five. Randall Alejo (St. Rose) pitched three innings and earned the win. He didn’t allow a baserunner and struck out six. Zane Kmietek (Marist) closed out the final two innings, allowing a hit and picking up three strikeouts.
The Nighthawks return to Maxfield Sports Complex for their home opener on Saturday against Winnipesaukee.