From NYU Athletics

Jonathan Iaione hit a home run and knocked in eight runs as the New York University baseball team opened up a three-game series with SUNY Canton on Saturday, March 3, at MCU Park in Brooklyn.

The Violets defeated the Kangaroos 13-3 in a game shortened to seven innings due to darkness.

Iaione hit a three-run home run in the first inning to put NYU (2-0) in front and the Violets never looked back. The senior also hit a two-run single in the third inning and cleared the bases with a double in the sixth innings to add to his career day. 

"I saw the ball well today," said Iaione. "It helps when you have guys ahead of you in the lineup that get on base."

Tim Salvadore started his first game in a Violet uniform and tossed five innings, scattering five hits and allowing just two earned runs. Joseph Prisco pitched scoreless sixth and seventh innings in relief.

"I'm happy with our pitching so far," said Head Coach Douglas Kimbler. "Our starters have pitched 11 of 16 innings and if we keep that up, we'll be in good shape."

NYU scored its 13 runs on just seven hits, but the Violets found other ways to reach base. The Violets drew 12 walks in Saturday's win and also reached five times via a hit by pitch. 

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS:

- Grant Otto went 2-for-4 for the Violets 

- Colman Hendershot was 1-for-2 and reached three times via a walk.

- Ryan McLaughlin scored three times and also knocked in a run. 

- Salvadore struck out six SUNY Canton hitters.