BECKLEY, W.Va. – Marshall rode the left arm of freshman Jordan Shapiro in his first weekend start to a 7-2 win over 16th ranked FAU Sunday afternoon. Shapiro tossed seven scoreless innings as the Herd salvaged the final game of the series to run its record to 18-15 overall and 8-7 in Conference USA.
“I think it was a team effort after losing two tough games earlier in the weekend. The guys were able to keep their confidence, and it all started with Josh,” said Coach Jeff Waggoner.
Shaprio struck out five and allowed just four hits, earning his first collegiate win.
“As a freshman to be able to come out and throw like that is impressive. He’s only allowed four hits in his last two outings. The confidence he has, the swagger, to throw any pitch in any count, just really shows his maturity as a pitcher.”
Offensively, Marshall was led by third-baseman Tyler Ratliff who was 2-for-4 at the plate with 4 RBI. Aaron Bossi drove in a pair and Corey Bird drove home a run with his lone hit on the afternoon.
The Herd now finds itself in a tie for fourth in the C-USA standings with Louisiana Tech and three games behind third place FAU.
Marshall plays host to Eastern Kentucky for a midweek match-up on Tuesday before returning to conference action Friday at Charlotte.