Bulldogs fall to Merrimack on Thursday

SMITHFIELD, R.I. – The Bryant University baseball team fell to Merrimack, 5-2, on Thursday afternoon at Conaty Park.

Bryant falls to 12-18 overall and 3-7 in Northeast Conference play. The Bulldogs have dropped six-straight NEC games.  

Game Information
Merrimack 5, Bryant 2
Records: Bryant 12-18, 3-7 NEC | Merrimack 10-18-1, 5-5 NEC
Location: Conaty Park (Smithfield, R.I.)
W|L|S: LT Pare (2-0) | Jackson Vanesko (1-1) | Timmy Kalantzakos (4)

Key Moment

• Bryant scored two runs and had the bases loaded in the bottom of the second but Merrimack starter Jack Collins struck out the next three batters to limit the damage. The Warriors would hit a two-run home run in the next inning to take the lead for good.                              

How it Happened

• The Warriors opened the scoring with a run in the second.
• Bryant answered in the bottom of the second. Two singles and fielding error loaded the bases and Matt Smith brought home two with a single to right center. A bunt single reloaded the bases but Collins struck out the next three batters to end the inning.
• In the third, Braydon Dolbashian hit a two-out, two-run home run to left center to give the Warriors a 3-2 lead.
• Merrimack would add single runs in the fourth and seventh to extend the lead.

Stats and Game Notes

• Bryant is now 6-1 against Merrimack at the DI level.
• The Bulldogs have lost six-straight NEC games.  
• Jackson Vanesko made his first-career start, allowing four runs on eight hits over 4.0 innings. He walked three and struck out three.
• Liam LeVangie tossed 3.0 innings of relief. He allowed one run on three hits and struck out four.
• Gustin and Tuccillo each finished with two hits.
• Matt Smith drove in two runs.  

Up Next
Bryant and Merrimack continue their series on Friday afternoon. First pitch is set for 3:00 p.m.