The River Splits on Final Day

PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL - The River split its final day of action on Friday, earning a thrilling 7–6 win over Northwest Florida before falling 10–2 to Tallahassee State College.

In Game one, David Pina drove in four runs on one hit to lead Indian River to a 7–6 victory over Northwest Florida. His biggest swing came in the fifth inning, when he launched a three-run homer to center field. The River didn't take the lead for good until late, as the game was tied at six in the top of the sixth inning when EJ Burns delivered an RBI single.

The River struck first in the top of the first inning when David Pina drove in a run on a groundout, followed by an RBI single from Jacob Souza. Northwest Florida answered in the bottom half of the inning on a walk by Qugley and a passed ball to tie the game.

Northwest Florida took the lead in the second inning when Santiago doubled home a run, and Fernandez followed with an RBI single to make it 4–2. The hosts added another run in the fourth on a solo home run by Nance. Qugley later tied the game at six in the fifth inning with a two-run homer to left field, setting the stage for the River's go-ahead run an inning later.

Anthony Linares earned his first save in relief for the River, allowing no hits or runs over two innings while striking out two and walking one. Blake Anderson earned the win, working three innings out of the bullpen and surrendering two runs on four hits. Javi Miranda started for Indian River, giving up four runs (three earned) on four hits in two innings. Woodson started for Northwest Florida, allowing three runs on five hits over three innings, while #24 took the loss after allowing one run on three hits in two innings.

The River totaled 11 hits, led by Andy Schroeder, who went 3-for-4. Jacob Souza added two hits, and the River turned one double play. For Northwest Florida, Qugley drove in two runs, Fernandez went 3-for-4 to lead the team in hits, and Santiago added two hits. Northwest Florida turned two double plays.

In Game two, Tallahassee State College scored six runs in the third inning to pull away and defeat the River 10–2.

The River opened the scoring in the first inning when David Pina singled to drive in a run. Tallahassee answered in the bottom of the second as Del Fuoco doubled home two runs to take a 2–1 lead. The game broke open in the third inning when Tallahassee scored six runs on just two hits. A River error brought in the first run, Bowens followed with a three-run home run to left field, Del Fuoco added an RBI single, and Spicher capped the scoring with a sacrifice bunt.

Michale Malone started for the River and allowed six runs (two earned) on two hits over two and one-third innings, striking out five and walking three. Tallahassee's starter, #24, earned the win after surrendering one run on three hits across five innings, striking out three and walking four.

Andy Schroeder and David Pina each drove in a run for the River. Bowens led Tallahassee with three RBIs, going 1-for-1 at the plate. Del Fuoco and Spicher each collected two hits, while Crouch drew three walks as Tallahassee showed patience at the plate, finishing with 10 walks. Tallahassee also turned a double play and played error-free defense, with Del Fuoco recording five chances in the field.

Indian River will travel to Polk State College on Tuesday, February 3rd, for non-conference action.

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