Badillo Hits Two-Run Blast, Eagles Drop Close Contest At Gardner-Webb

Boiling Springs, North Carolina – March 22, 2024

Nicholas Badillo showcased his power at the plate with a two-run home run, but Winthrop University’s baseball team fell short in a close contest against Gardner-Webb. The Eagles lost by a final score of 6-4 in the first game of their three-game Big South series on Friday afternoon.

Key Contributors

• Nicholas Badillo: 3-5, 1 run, 2 RBIs, 1 HR
• Winning Pitcher: Josh Gentile (2-0)
• Losing Pitcher: Riley Huge (4-2)
• Save: Devin Pressley (3)

Game Summary

The excitement started early in the game when Nicholas Badillo smashed a two-run home run to center field, giving Winthrop a 2-0 lead. However, Gardner-Webb responded, with Peter Capobianco’s home run cutting the lead in half in the second inning.

The lead exchanged hands as Gardner-Webb took a 3-2 lead in the bottom of the fourth inning thanks to Ethan Liao’s two-run RBI single. Winthrop fought back to tie the game in the seventh inning, but Gardner-Webb pulled ahead with a triple and a two-run homer in their half of the inning.

In the ninth inning, Winthrop attempted a late rally, but fell short as Badillo struck out with the tying run on base, sealing the victory for Gardner-Webb.

Next Game

Winthrop will look to bounce back in the second game of the series against Gardner-Webb tomorrow afternoon at 3 p.m. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+.

Quotes

“It is high! It is far! It is gone! Nicholas Badillo with a two-run blast to center field and the Eagles have the early lead! Winthrop 2 Gardner-Webb 0 #ROCKtheHILL #BigSouthBSB”

“M7 | We are all tied up! Alan Benhardt gets home on an error! Winthrop 3 Gardner-Webb 3 #ROCKtheHILL #BigSouthBSB”