VCU defeated Fordham 5-3 in the opening game of their weekend baseball series on April 10 at Houlihan Park in Bronx, New York.
The win gives VCU a strong start to the three-game set, improving their record to 19-14 overall and 9-4 in conference play. Fordham’s record moved to 14-19 (6-7). The victory was powered by three home runs from Dante DeFranco, Michael Petite, and Jacob Lee.
DeFranco started the game with a first-pitch home run and collected two hits during the contest. Lee reached his career milestone of over 100 hits and hit his 24th career home run, tying him for ninth all-time in program history for that statistic. Petite contributed with a two-run homer in the third inning that gave VCU an early lead.
On the mound, senior right-handed pitcher Zach Peters held Fordham scoreless for three innings and extended his streak to ten consecutive outings without allowing an earned run. Peters earned his third save of the season. Dawson Newman pitched three innings as well, striking out a career-high five batters while allowing one inherited runner to score.
Despite being outhit by Fordham eight to six, VCU did not allow any extra-base hits from their opponent. Joey Donnelly led Fordham with two sacrifice flies that brought in runs.
Looking ahead, VCU will try to secure a series win against Fordham on Saturday, April 11 at Houlihan Park. The game is scheduled for a 1 p.m. start and will be streamed on ESPN+.
