#11 Eagles Start 5-0 in the Sunshine State
Auburndale, FL- The 11th-ranked Kirkwood Eagles took off on a road trip, heading to Florida for a series of matchups that will set the tone going forward this season. Through the first five games, the Eagles showcased their offensive firepower in a string of impressive victories.
Their journey kicked off with a clash against UCONN Avery Point on a Friday showdown. From the first pitch, the Eagles set the tone, unleashing an offensive onslaught that saw them race to a 9-3 victory. Brayden Hellum's homer and three RBIs, coupled with Miles Risley's triple and double, powered Kirkwood to an early lead. On the mound, Jake Pemble's dominant performance, allowing just one hit with eight strikeouts over five innings, stifled any comeback attempts from Avery Point.
The momentum carried into the next game against Mid Michigan later that day, where the Eagles continued their offensive barrage en route to a commanding 10-0 win. With seven Eagles contributing RBIs and Cael Ortmann's stellar pitching performance, allowing only two hits with six strikeouts over four innings, Kirkwood left no doubt about their dominance.
Saturday brought a rematch against UCONN Avery Point, and once again, the Eagles showcased their offensive prowess. With an explosive display of power hitting, including multiple homers from Jaxon Schumacher, Clayton Campidili, Owen Ross, and Bronx Lewis, Kirkwood cruised to a 19-3 victory. Ethan Bowers' four RBIs led the charge, while Jackson Payne's pitching brilliance secured the win with six strikeouts over five innings.
Sunday's doubleheader against Niagra proved to be a test of resilience for the Eagles. In a thrilling extra-inning showdown, Kirkwood emerged victorious with a narrow 9-8 win. Miles Risley continued his stellar performance, hitting two home runs, and crucial RBIs from Brayden Hellum and Cal Sullivan propelled the Eagles to victory.
The final game of the weekend against Niagra showcased Kirkwood's offense once again. Owen Ross and Bronx Lewis launched homers, while a total of seven Eagles contributed RBIs in a dominant 13-3 victory. Drew Proskovec's pitching prowess, with seven strikeouts, sealed the deal for Kirkwood.
As the Eagles continue their Florida tour, their explosive offense and solid pitching make them a force to be reckoned with. With upcoming matchups against Genesse and Prairie State, Kirkwood aims to maintain their winning streak
