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BASEBALL BLOWOUT: HIGH POINT TAKES DOWN GARDNER-WEBB 16-5

The High Point University baseball team delivered an impressive performance, crushing Gardner-Webb 16-5 on Friday night. The game showcased the Panthers’ power hitting, with a remarkable seven home runs.

Game Highlights:

Location: Williard Stadium
Score: High Point 16, Gardner-Webb 5
Records: High Point (34-15, 15-4), Gardner-Webb (16-32, 5-14)

Coach Joey Hammond expressed pride in his team’s performance. He praised pitcher Wade Walton, who secured his eighth win, striking out nine batters in over seven innings. Hammond noted, “Even though the final score shows some runs for the other team, Wade was dominant. It gave us the time we needed to settle in offensively.”

Key Moments:

Konni Durschlag set the tone early with a leadoff home run in the first inning.
After Gardner-Webb took a brief lead in the fourth, High Point responded instantly. James Murphy and Frank Kelly hit back-to-back homers to regain the lead at 4-2.
The inning fireworks continued, with HPU pushing their lead to 8-2 after three consecutive homers in the fifth, including a massive 474-foot shot from Brayden Simpson.

This game wasn’t just about power; it highlighted the Panthers’ resilience. After some early struggles, the team refocused, reminding themselves of their core values. This emphasis on process is crucial for sustained success in baseball.

Recent Trends in College Baseball:

According to a recent NCAA report, home run rates are on the rise across college baseball, hitting an all-time peak this season. In fact, teams like High Point are capitalizing on this trend, demonstrating the importance of power hitters in college leagues.

The Road Ahead:

As High Point prepares for game two of the series against Gardner-Webb, senior day festivities loom, making it a special time for players and fans alike. Coach Hammond is keen on maintaining the momentum, looking for another solid outing as they aim to secure the series.

Catch all the action and support the Panthers as they take the field once more!

For more details, check the NCAA’s latest statistics on home runs in college baseball here.