April 9, 2004

Box Score

PHILADELPHIA - St. Bonaventure jumped out to an 8-3 lead and held on for an 8-7 Atlantic 10 Conference win at La Salle on Friday afternoon at DeVincent Field.

The Bonnies, who are the home team in this three-game series, plated five runs in the bottom of third inning to open a 6-2 lead. Senior shortstop Eric Wilson had a two-run single in the frame, while junior catcher Damian Blakeley and freshman third baseman Mike Marduesz each had run-scoring singles.

The Bonnies increased their lead to 8-3 when senior outfielder Matt Landahl scored two runs with a single in the fourth inning.

The Explorers countered with two runs in both the fifth and sixth innings, but freshman Brian Pellegrini came on to pitch two innings of scoreless ball in relief of starter Mike McCormack who was charged with all of the La Salle runs. Pellegrini allowed just one hit and struck out two and was credited with his fourth save.

Despite allowing 14 hits, McCormack evened his record at 2-2.

The Bonnies managed only six hits against two La Salle pitchers, but did draw four walks off starter Eric Ruhland.

Pellegrini smacked his third home run of the year, a solo shot in the first inning.

The Bonnies improved to 8-9 overall and 3-1 in A-10 action. La Salle fell to 15-13 overall and 0-7 in conference play.

The teams will complete the series Saturday with a doubleheader starting at noon.