Kent State’s baseball team was able to carry over some positive momentum from last weekend’s series against Florida Gulf Coast University.

Going into the game, Winthrop was undefeated with an 8-0 record. The Flashes arrived at Rock Hill, South Carolina and were able to defeat the Eagles Friday, 5-2. 

Sophomore pitcher Luke Albright took home the win for the Flashes as he pitched a dominant six complete innings with no earned runs allowed.

Kent State’s offense was fueled by the bats of junior Michael Turner and sophomore Collin Mathews who had two hits each in the game, both with an RBI as well. Sophomore Grant Vera also contributed an RBI for the Flashes.

On Saturday, the Flashes gave the 8-1 Eagles yet another loss thanks to a huge day from redshirt junior Ben Carew. The Flashes were able to put up a 13-6 score as a result of 18 hits from the Flashes throughout the afternoon.

Carew’s bat was red-hot for Kent State on Saturday as he hit two doubles and three RBIs in the game. Redshirt sophomore Trevor Pittman received his first win of the season for the Flashes, pitching two innings of scoreless relief and allowing just one hit. This was Kent State’s fourth straight victory.

Unfortunately, the Flashes were unable to complete the sweep of Winthrop on Sunday, losing 5-4 after a late rally from the Eagles.

Redshirt junior pitcher Tyler Drabick took the loss for Kent State. In a game that went down to the final inning, the Flashes were able to break a 2-2 tie in the top of the ninth. That wouldn’t be enough for the Flashes, who lost on a walk-off as Winthrop was able to score three times. 

Despite dropping the last game of the series, Kent State managed to improve to 6-4 throughout the first 10 games of the young season. 

The road trip continues for the Flashes on Wednesday as they will travel to the mountains of West Virginia to face the Mountaineers. First pitch from Morgantown is set for 4:00 p.m.

Nick Pedone is a sports reporter. Contact him at [email protected].