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ATLANTA, Ga. - Kennesaw State baseball struck for three runs in the top of the first inning but could not keep pace with the nation's top-scoring offense, falling to No. 2 Georgia Tech, 11-4, Tuesday night at Mac Neese Baseball Park at Russ Chandler Stadium.
Charlie Jones led the Owls (15-14, 6-6 CUSA) at the plate, going 3-for-4 with three RBIs to record his first multi-hit game of the season and the seventh three-hit performance of his career. Jackson Chirello, Trenton Lyons, Grayson McCollum and Shamaar McDuffie added a hit apiece.
KSU used nine pitchers in the contest, with five turning in scoreless outings. Nate Helman made his first start of the season and third of his career, tossing 2.0 scoreless innings with two hits, one walk and three strikeouts. Harry Cain recorded an out in the fifth without allowing a run, while Peter Jezerinac, Ryan Renfroe and Cole Royer each struck out a batter in a perfect inning of relief.
How it Happened
- T1 | Chris Cole was hit by a pitch and stole second, scoring when Jackson Chirello lined a double off the right-center field wall. After Aaron Posey was plunked and Trenton Lyons walked, Charlie Jones poked a single through the left side of the infield, scoring Chirello and Posey (3-0, Kennesaw State).
- B3 | The Yellow Jackets used a one-out triple and an RBI groundout to plate their first run (3-1).
- B4 | Georgia Tech claimed the lead after scoring three runs on four hits, including a solo homer (4-3, GT).
- B5 | The Ramblin' Wreck tallied five more runs on five hits (9-3).
- T6 | Lyons singled and stole second, scoring when Jones dropped a single into center field (9-4).
- B6 | A two-run homer added to the Jackets' lead (11-4).
Notes from the Diamond
- Jones recorded his first multi-hit game as an Owl with a 3-for-4, three-RBI performance.
- Tuesday marked the seventh three-hit game of his career.
- Josh Gibbs' hitting streak ended at six games.
- James McGee extended his on-base streak to 18 games, while Chris Cole pushed his to 14.
Next Up
Kennesaw State travels to the Sunshine State for a three-game series at FIU beginning Friday, April 10. First pitch for the series opener is set for 6 p.m., with ESPN+ carrying the broadcast.
The Champions Fund
The Champions Fund is a newly created, 100% tax deductible, philanthropic opportunity to contribute strategic revenue to Kennesaw State Athletics, with the goal of strengthening our ability to recruit and retain top-tier talent in this new era of collegiate athletics. Contributions to the Champions Fund will help aid in funding student-athlete recruitment and retention, as well as helping the Owls provide competitive excellence through investments in coaching, travel and facilities. The fund will also give an elevated student-athlete experience, including enhanced academic, nutrition, wellness and leadership programs. Donate to the Champions Fund here and help us support our Kennesaw State Owls.
