GASTONIA, N.C. — The Kingsmen battled but fell in their home opener on Monday, as Belmont Abbey College JV was too much to handle. The Kingsmen dropped the contest, 11-1.
Surrendering five runs early, Coach Hudak’s team was trailing from the jump at CaroMont Health Park. Nehemiah Barnes was touched up for a few hits early on, making things difficult.
Owen Beatrice uncorked his second home run of the spring to hit back, a solo shot. That was the only offense that showed up on the scoreboard.
Belmont Abbey lefty Chris Teagle was masterful on the mound, striking out ten only allowing two hits in his six innings. Kingsmen hitters had better luck against the relievers that followed but were ultimately unable to further add to their run tally.
Over the nine inning game, the Kingsmen sent six pitchers to the mound. Barnes was followed by AJ Griffith, Tate Johnston, Angel Rary, Max Raley, and Ashton Bowes.
Each had their moments, but shining brightest of all was the eighth inning when Florence, SC native Max Raley threw an immaculate inning, striking out the side.
With a tough contest in the books, the Kingsmen turn their eyes to Tuesday’s contest with P27’s premier team.
That game will commence at 5:30 eastern time at Winthrop Ballpark in Rock Hill. That neutral site contest will be the first of two between the teams this week, with a rematch set for Friday at CaroMont.
