Hartsville, SC - The Coker University Baseball Team split their doubleheader with Carson Newman on Sunday (April 23) and finished their season on a high note.
Game One:
Shortly after the ceremony in honor of the eight seniors, Coker quickly got things rolling in the bottom of the first inning. With a triple from Kody Hanna, Nick Leonard scored and took the Cobras up by one. Shortly after, Donavan Frayer shot a line drive into right field for a double and scored Kody Hanna for run two. Coker continued to hold their lead throughout the second inning and posted an additional three runs in the bottom of the third. With an error from the pitcher, Nick Leonard crossed home plate for run three while Kody Hanna stole home on another error from the Eagles. Eli Hopkins with a sacrifice fly to right field, Coker's lead extended to five runs as Donavan Frayer made it home safe. Carson Newman fighting back from a five run deficit, they tied the game up in the top of the fifth inning. In good fortune and strong baserunning, the Cobras brought in run number six with a wild pitch. The Eagles tieing it up once again, Coker continued to push through in hopes of another victory over Carson Newman. Kody Hanna, a clutch player for the Cobras, drilled a ball into right field for a double, scoring Cameron Ferrell and Jacob Yarberry. To round out the game, Donavan Frayer singled to center field and brought Kody Hanna in for the final run. Coker left the game leading Carson Newman by two and feeling good as they headed into their intermission between games.
Out of the 31 at bats, Coker collected 10 hits, nine runs, and seven RBI's. Leading his team, Kody Hanna registered three runs, 3 hits, and 3 RBI's. Donavan Frayer followed close behind with a double and three RBI's. Once again, Kody Hanna and Donavan Frayer at the forefront, led in stolen bases in the first game.
In total, five pitches threw for Coker, Jacob Hardy leading with 23 batters faced. Seniors, Ethan Graham and Evan Pawlowski made an appearance throughout the game.
Game Two:
Kicking off game two with high energy, Coker started off the second game much like they did the first. With a passed ball from Carson Newman, Cameron Ferrell made it home for run number one. No runs were scored in the next four innings by either team despite runners getting on, but Cody Chapman with a stand-up appearance on the mound posted seven strikeouts on the Eagles. The Cobras collected another two runs in the bottom of the fifth inning, Caleb McCants and Cameron Ferrell taking Coker's lead up by three. Unfortunately, Carson Newman's bats got hot and they were able to overtake Coker at the last minute.
Out of 26 at bats in game two, Coker collected seven hits, three runs, and one RBI. Cameron Ferrell led with two runs and two hits throughout the game. Donavan Frayer and Cameron Ferrell also led in stolen bases while Kody Hanna collected the only RBI.
In total, three pitchers faced off against the Eagles and eight strikeouts were recorded; Cody Chapman leading with seven.
The Cobras will be returning in the fall for the 2023-24 season to prepare for the next year. Thank you to each senior that has made an impact on the 2022-23 team and we wish you good luck!
