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KENNESAW, Ga. - Kennesaw State head coach Ryan Coe became the second-winningest coach in program history as the Owls raced past Sam Houston, 12-1, on Sunday afternoon at Mickey Dunn Stadium at Henssler Financial Field. The game ended with one out in the bottom of the eighth inning when Trenton Lyons lifted a three-run home run to secure the run-rule victory.
The Owls (22-22, 11-13 CUSA) completed a much-needed sweep and moved into a tie for sixth place in the Conference USA standings with the win on Sunday. KSU totaled 12 runs on 13 hits, led by Trenton Lyons and Shamaar McDuffie, who both recorded two hits and four RBIs, while Cooper Williams and Aaron Posey tallied a pair of hits each. Jackson Chirello's three-run homer in the third inning was his fourth long ball of the weekend and provided an early cushion the pitching staff would not surrender.
Harry Cain (W, 3-3) was brilliant, allowing just one unearned run in 7.0 innings of work while striking out seven without issuing a walk. Cain turned in his longest start of the season and matched his career long, becoming the first Owl starter to pitch into the eighth inning this season. The veteran right-hander also spun a gem against Sam Houston last season, bringing his career line against the Bearkats to 14.0 innings pitched with one unearned run, two walks and 16 strikeouts. Ryan Gold struck out two Bearkats in a scoreless inning of relief.
How it Happened
- B2 | After James McGee walked and Wesley Alig singled, Shamaar McDuffie roped a two-run single into center field (2-0, Kennesaw State).
- B3 | Chirello lifted a three-run homer to center field, driving in Trenton Lyons and Charlie Jones (5-0).
- B4 | Cooper Williams doubled to right-center field, scoring McDuffie, who drew a leadoff walk (6-0).
- B6 | With runners on first and second and two outs, Lyons singled to center field to plate McDuffie (7-0).
- T8 | An errant throw on a fielder's choice allowed the Bearkats to avoid the shutout (7-1).
- B8 | McDuffie's two-run single and Lyons' three-run homer secured the run-rule victory (12-1).
Notes from the Diamond
- KSU picked up its first home CUSA sweep of the season.
- Head coach Ryan Coe earned his 146th win at the helm, becoming the second-winningest coach in program history.
- Cain spun his longest outing of the season, working 7.0 innings on Sunday.
- Chirello became the first Owl to homer in three consecutive games since Donovan Cash did so in 2023.
- McDuffie drove in a career-best four RBIs.
- Lyons' hitting streak reached nine games on Sunday, going 14-for-39 (.359) with five doubles, two home runs, 11 RBIs and six runs scored during that span.
- Chris Cole found his way on base for the 29th consecutive game, while Alig reached for the 15th straight contest.
Next Up
Kennesaw State completes the homestand on Tuesday, May 5, when it welcomes Georgia State to Mickey Dunn Stadium at Henssler Financial Field. First pitch in the final midweek of the season is set for 6 p.m. with ESPN+ carrying the action.
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.
