CCBC Essex Falls to Nationally Ranked Erie CC Kats Despite Out-Hitting Them in Game 1 of the Doubleheader

Rosedale, MD – CCBC Essex came up short against the nationally ranked Erie CC Kats, losing 6-3 on Saturday at The Kingdom, despite out-hitting their opponent six to four. Sophomore Ethan Holland (Salisbury, MD / Parkside) led the Knights with two hits. The loss drops CCBC Essex to 9-8 overall.

CCBC Essex struck first in the bottom of the first inning when Freshman Lorenzo Rodriguez-Pozo (Orlando, FL / Lake Nona) drew a bases-loaded walk, bringing in the game's first run.

Erie CC responded in the top of the second when Zack Bedard singled down the left field line, driving in a run to tie the game at one.

In the top of the third, Erie pulled ahead as a passed ball allowed one run to score, followed by a CCBC Essex error that extended the lead to 3-1.

The Knights clawed back in the bottom of the fourth. Freshman Connor Bailey (Salisbury, MD / Parkside) delivered an RBI groundout, trimming the deficit to 3-2. However, Erie answered with three runs in the fifth inning, capitalizing on a pair of walks and a timely hit by EJ Williams, making it 6-2.

CCBC Essex attempted a late rally in the bottom of the fifth when Freshman Tyler Vonella (Hampstead, MD / Manchester Valley) grounded out, scoring one run. However, the Knights were unable to close the gap any further.

Freshman Casey Parsons (Salisbury, MD) took the loss for CCBC Essex, surrendering six runs (four earned) on four hits over four and one-third innings. Parsons struck out two and walked six. Erie's Aaron Knuutila earned the win, allowing two hits and one run over four innings while striking out three and walking six. Nick Gold recorded the save for Erie.

Holland led CCBC Essex at the plate, going 2-for-3. Bailey and Vonella each drove in one run. Rodriguez-Pozo and Bailey were aggressive on the base paths, swiping two bases each. The Knights tallied five stolen bases in the game.

Erie CC finished with four hits, with Bedard, Williams, Josh Bluain, and Konner Hauck each collecting one. Williams led the Kats with two RBIs, while Erie's lineup displayed patience, drawing 10 walks. The Kats also turned two double plays in the game.

CCBC Essex will face Erie CC in the second game of the doubleheader, looking to bounce back.