As the fourth inning unfolded, Xavier batters orchestrated a symphony of hits and runs, with Cushing sprinting towards second base, Schultz racing to third, and McCormick dashing home. Deprey’s well-placed hit propelled him to second base, facilitating Schultz’s graceful glide across home plate. With unwavering determination, Xavier clung to their momentum as they effortlessly amassed a commanding lead of seven runs before Hendrickson succumbed to a swinging strikeout. Miami’s hopes dwindled as Novak fell victim to a devastating strikeout towards the end of the inning.
Entering the fifth inning, Xavier stood tall, radiating invincibility. Miami, determined to halt their opponent’s advance, intensified their defensive efforts, thwarting Xavier’s attempts to expand their lead further. It wasn’t until the waning moments of the fifth inning that Macdonald spearheaded a valiant offensive charge for the Redhawks, salvaging a solitary run. However, despite this brief recovery, Miami found themselves outmatched for the remainder of the game.
Xavier continued to assert their dominance on the field, tallying six more runs in the sixth inning and capping off the game with two final runs in the seventh inning. With a bitter defeat on their home turf, the Redhawks now face a daunting challenge against their MAC rival, Ball State, in a three-game series set to unfold from April 5-7 at McKie Field. Determined to redeem themselves and bolster their winning record, Miami must approach the series with unwavering competitive spirit to emerge victorious against the Cardinals.
