SMITHFIELD, R.I. – The Bryant baseball team made a thrilling comeback in their home opener, tying Merrimack 9-9 in the bottom of the ninth inning at Conaty Park on Wednesday.
It was the team’s second tie under head coach Ryan Klosterman. The game was cut short due to darkness, but Bryant’s next challenge awaits as they travel to Delaware for a three-game series starting Friday.
Down 9-6 in the ninth, Jacob Gaudreau ignited the rally with a single. An error allowed him to reach second base. Gavin Noriega then brought in the first run with an RBI single. Brandyn Durand hit a double that bounced over the wall, allowing only one run to score. Pat D’Amico’s sacrifice fly tied the game shortly after.
Durand had a standout game, going 3-for-5 with three RBIs and hitting his fourth home run of the season. Both Zyons and Charlie Saul also contributed with home runs for the Black and Gold.
Game Recap
Final Score: Bryant 9, Merrimack 9
Records: Bryant 2-3-1, Merrimack 1-5-1
Location: Conaty Park, Smithfield, R.I.
Key Moments:
- Bryant scored three runs in the final inning to tie the game.
How It Unfolded:
- Merrimack started strong with a home run in the first inning.
- Zyons quickly responded with a home run, sending the ball 414 feet to right.
- Bryant took an early lead with a successful steal.
- Saul hit a home run, extending the lead to 3-1.
- Merrimack then scored five consecutive runs to lead 6-3.
- Bryant narrowed the gap with a two-run homer from Durand.
- The ninth inning saw a dramatic error from Merrimack, allowing runs to score, and setting up a tense finish.
Box Score Insights:
- Merrimack had a slight edge in hits, 9-7.
- The Bulldogs committed two errors during the game.
- Durand’s performance was a highlight with three hits and three RBIs.
- Zyons contributed with another home run, marking his 13th career homer.
- Saul celebrated his first career home run.
- Pitcher Trey Deitelbaum made his first career start.
Looking Ahead:
Bryant’s next series at Delaware kicks off on Friday at 4:00 p.m., followed by games on Saturday and Sunday.
