May 6, 2006

Bonnies continue conference win streak

AMHERST, Mass. -- St. Bonaventure won their ninth conference game in a row, defeating UMass 10-2 in game two of its Atlantic 10 Conference series Saturday.

UMass struck for the first run of the game in the second inning when Bill Rankin scored on a fielder's choice by Ryan Franczek.

The Bonnies responded with three runs in the top of the third. Junior Joe Rizzo hit a three run homerun to right field, bringing in junior Josh Perkins and senior Matt Agostinelli, who both reached base with walks.

UMass scored another run in the fourth, when Lou Proietti singled, bringing in Adam Tempesta who had doubled earlier in the inning.

The Bonnies once again responded with a run of their own in the sixth. Sophomore outfielder T.J. Pennino tripled to lead off the inning. He was brought home on a sacrifice fly to left field by junior infielder Matt Marduesz.

St. Bonaventure broke the game open in the eighth, bringing home six runs. Pennino started the inning with a double. Pennino was brought in on a single by junior second baseman Kieran Malone. Agostinelli then doubled, bringing in Malone. Junior first baseman Brian Pellegrini brought plated Agostinelli on a fielder's choice. Rizzo then singled to drive in Randy Moley, who reached via intentional walk. Pennino singled in his second at bat of the inning, bringing home Pellegrini for the Bonnies' final run.

Rizzo led the way for the Bonnies for the second day in a row. On the day, Rizzo drove in four RBI's on two hits, including the home run. Pennino also had a strong day at the plate, picking up three hits and an RBI.

Sophomore Cody Vincent pitched a complete game, striking out 2 and allowing two runs. Vincent improved his record to 5-2.

St. Bonaventure is now 22-16 on the season and 14-5 in Atlantic 10 play. The Minutemen fall to 10-25 overall, including 8-12 in conference action.

The Bonnies and Minutemen will conclude their three-game series on Sunday. First pitch is set for noon.

- SBU -