Eagles Pick Up a Crucial Win in Game One vs Bryan College

Waleska, GA - With much on the line in regard to AAC standings and the NAIA postseason, the RU Eagles clinched an impressive victory against the Bryan Lions with a final score of 8-3 at Ken White on Friday evening. The game was a monumental occasion for the Eagles, especially for senior players who reached remarkable career milestones.

Andrew Herbert led the pitching efforts, becoming the Eagles' all-time career strikeout leader with a record 288 strikeouts. This game also saw Nash Crowell become the program's all-time home run leader with his 56th home run, a significant achievement that started off the game with a bang in the first inning. Additionally, Adrian Vargas wielded his bat effectively, marking his second home run of the season during a crucial moment in the seventh inning.

Herbert didn't have his best game as an Eagle, but he pushed his way through a tough second inning and kept the Lion's runs to a minimum. This allowed the Eagles' offense to get going and add runs to the board. However, even with a tough game, he was still very effective and controlled the game. He picked up his tenth win of the season, which has him at #5 in the NAIA leader standings for wins.

Logan Lynch relieved Herbert in the top of the sixth inning and pitched the remainder of the game.  Lynch struck out five batters and only allowed 2 hits the rest of the way.

Reinhardt (GA)Pitchers

The game unfolded with Reinhardt building a steady lead, notably in the fourth inning where strategic walks and a critical double allowed them to extend their advantage. The team's effort was well-coordinated, with contributions coming from all ends. Jacob Mantooth, Barry Eiseman, Dryden Howse, Louis Dion, Cedric Cullars, Cade Chamlee, and the aforementioned Crowell and Vargas each scored runs to solidify the win.

Barry Eiseman had a triple that scored a run and Phelps, Mantooth, and Howse each had doubles in the game. The eight runs scored was the most the Eagles have scored since they faced Faulkner back on April 1st.  This is a good sign for the offense after a four game stretch where they struggled some on getting runs across the plate.

For Reinhardt, the milestones reached during this game highlight a season of strong performances and promising potential as this regular season winds down.  Reinhardt is currently in third position in the AAC standings with only a game or two separateing the top three teams (Johnson, Tennessee Wesleyan, and Reinhardt).  The Eagles will try to keep adding to the conference wins tomorrow as the two teams will face each other again for the Saturday doubleheader starting at 1 pm at Ken White Field.  It will be a busy day on campus with the school hosting the Family and Alumni Weekend during the baseball, softball, and flag football games going on Saturday afternoon.