RIVERDALE, N.Y. ? The Jaspers got on the scoreboard first, but South Alabama (6-3) scored more frequently running off with a 15-6 victory this afternoon in Mobile, Ala. The loss marks the third straight for the Manhattan College baseball team (1-6) in its four game series with the Jaguars this weekend. Junior outfielder Chris Davis connected on two home runs and notched seven RBIs in the winning effort. Manhattan starter Brian Pendergast, a sophomore right-hander, was credited with his second loss of the 2008 campaign.
The Jaspers jumped out to a 3-0 advantage in the top of the first. Senior Dom Lombardi doubled to left center scoring Eric Nieto who reach base on a single through the left side.
In the next at bat, Mark Onorati also singled allowing Lombardi to round the bases. Onorati had three hits and three RBIs on the afternoon. He eventually scored on a Ruben Perez double.
South Alabama responded with six runs in the bottom half of the inning thanks in part to Davis's grand slam that went over the left field wall. The Jaguars scored again each of the next three innings to take a commanding 12-3 advantage.
In the sixth, Davis knocked out another homer, this time a three run shot.
The Jaspers caught up with senior right-hander Travis Johnson in the eighth. Freshman Chad Salem doubled to left center sending two runs to the plate. He later scored on a throwing error.
Greg Johnson came out of the bullpen in the ninth and ended Manhattan's comeback hopes getting three outs to secure the victory.
Manhattan returns to action in the Bronx on Wednesday when the squad travels to cross-town rival Fordham. Game time is set for 3 p.m.
