The Cyclones started their season Feb. 26 and 27 with a three-game series against Volunteer State Community College in Tennessee. Although it ended in an 0-3 record, the Cyclones learned a lot before the bulk of the season really starts.
GAME 1
The matchup began Feb. 26 with a doubleheader that ended in a 5-0 loss. Daniel Rosado started on the bump for the Cyclones, and he was dealing. He went 5.1 innings, keeping the Pioneer bats at bay and allowing three hits with three earned runs and five strikeouts. The Cyclones were down 1-0 going into the sixth inning, but an error opened the door for the Pioneers to seal the victory.
Even though the Cyclones didn't score, they hit some scorchers. Winston Hill II went 2-for-3 at the plate.
GAME 2
The second game wasn't as pretty as the Cyclones suffered a 10-0 rout. Robert Warchol had a double in the first inning, but after that, the hitting was light. At one time, the Cyclones had runners on second and third, but the next few batters struck out. Danzel Lucas and Hill were the only other two to get a hit. Daccarius Chapman took the loss. The righthander allowed no hits and five runs over three and a third innings. He struck out two.
GAME 3
The Cyclones ended their Tennessee trip on Feb. 27 with a 4-0 defeat. This game was much closer and saw some solid pitching.
On the mound, freshman Tim Roe made his debut and shut down the Pioneers. He went six innings, striking out five while allowing just two hits and two earned runs. The Pioneers weren't able to get a good read on the ball, but a few Cyclone errors allowed the runs. Brian Funk and Maximus Bullock each managed a hit in this outing.
"This was a total learning experience for our guys, myself included. It was a successful trip even though we took three losses. Now, back to work," said Head Coach Hugh Dennehy.