Fordham Edges Highlanders, 4-3

RADFORD, Va.--Third baseman Jordan Lert hit a two-run home run in the seventh inning to lift Fordham over Radford 4-3 on Saturday at Dedmon Center Park in game two of the three-game series. (Box Score)

Radford held a 3-1 lead entering the seventh inning when Fordham left fielder Brian Keeney scored on a double by catcher Jeremy Bourgeois. Lert then hit the two-run shot, giving the Rams the one-run lead.

The Highlanders had chances in the eighth and ninth innings, getting four runners on base in the final two stanzas, but they were unable to score. RU’s three runs all came in the third inning when shortstop Stuart Ritchie led off with a triple. Second Baseman Alan Ashworth then doubled to left centerfield, scoring Ritchie. Third baseman Shaun House then singled to score Ashworth. Right fielder Matt Mantione also singled in the inning, scoring House.

Fordham’s first run of the game came in the sixth inning when designated hitter Joe Ciccone, who reached on a single, scored from third when right fielder Javier Martinez grounded into a double play.

Craig Tscherednikov earned the win for the Rams, throwing 2.2 innings, allowing two hits and no runs. Shingo Mitsumori picked up the save, throwing 1.1 innings, allowing one hit while striking out two. Starter Justin Morgan was credit with the loss for Radford. He gave up four runs on seven hits, striking out four and walking none.

Ashworth and Matione led RU at the plate, picking up two hits and one RBI apiece. Bourgeois and designated hitter Joe Ciccone each went 2-for-4 for Fordham, with Bourgeois collecting an RBI as well.

The two teams will complete the three-game series Sunday afternoon at 1:00 pm.