The Ashland University baseball team rode a 12-run explosion over the first four innings to beat the Saginaw Valley State Cardinals 16-3 in the first game in a three game series between the teams.

“We played well in all phases of the game,” said manager John Schaly. “We feel like we’re capable to put up big offensive days like this one but we just need to be more consistent.”

Starting pitcher Brandon Sittinger was rock solid as he struck out nine over six innings.

“I felt good. Everything was working well today,” said Sittinger. “It’s easy to pitch when your defense is behind you.”

After cruising through the first four innings, which included a no-hitter through three, Sittinger gave up three runs in the fifth inning but managed to get through the sixth before the closer was brought in.

“You have to have that attitude of no one can hit you,” said Sittinger. “Eventually guys are going to put balls in play but you’ve just got to continue to have that attitude.”

Cory Teachout pitched the final three innings in relief to secure the win.

Senior third baseman Mike Lewandowski was the main cog in an offensive explosion for the Eagles, going 3-for-4 with three RBIs. The Eagles combined for 18 hits and chased Saginaw starting pitcher Scott Sency from the game in the third inning.

Lewandowski has great expectations for this team, despite the slow start.

“This is definitely the best team we’ve had while I have been here,” said Lewandowski. “We just haven’t put it together yet but I feel we’re going to.”

Catcher Adam Vasil also had a big game for them, going 4-for-4 with an RBI after struggling through the Florida trip for the team.  

“He’s been thinking too much over the past few games,” said Schaly. “I told him to just go up and hit.”

The Eagle offense was also helped by six errors from the Saginaw Valley State fielders.

The Eagles come back tomorrow with the second game of their three-game series against the Cardinals at 1 pm.