Winthrop falls in series opener at Stetson University

Eagles starter Sam Kmiec went eight innings with six strikeouts, but lost a pitcher’s duel in the series opener, 2-1, against Stetson University on Friday at Melching Field.

Winthrop’s only run came when Babe Thomas hit a sacrifice fly to right to score Anthony Paulsen and even the score at 1 in the fourth inning.

The Eagles (10-8) gave up the early lead in the first inning when Kirk Sidwell flied out to right field, scoring Matt Morales. The Hatters (11-8) regained the lead at 2-1 in the bottom of fifth when Vance Vizcaino singled to left field sending Charlie Watters home.

Mitchell Jordan got the win with relief from Walker Sheller. Sheller went an inning for his sixth save of the season.

Neither team was able to produce any substantial offense the remainder of the game as the Hatters held off the Eagles and the game ended in a 2-1 final.

Winthrop (10-8) will look to bounce back for the second game Saturday. First pitch has been moved ahead to noon (instead of 2 p.m.).

This story was originally published March 18, 2016 at 9:31 PM with the headline "Winthrop falls in series opener at Stetson University."