WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Barry University’s baseball team defeated the University of Mary (ND) 16-10 at the Santaluces Complex in their final matchup before opening up the Sunshine State Conference slate of the schedule on Friday.
No. 18 Barry (14-2) won for the 9th consecutive game after posting 16 runs on 16 hits at the Palm Beach Challenge Sunday afternoon.
After surrendering two runs in the top of the first inning, the Bucs answered with a pair of runs in the bottom of the frame to tie the game. Once again in the third both teams traded a pair of runs, but the Bucs rallied for three runs in the fourth and two more in the fifth to take a 9-4.
Mary (0-5) wasn’t going away without a fight. Seeking their first win of the season, the Marauders scored five runs in the top of the sixth inning to tie the game at 9-9.
In a back and forth game, it seemed like every time the Marauders put together a rally, the Bucs were quick to answer. Mike Diaz doubled down the right field line to drive in Luis Rios-Reyes and Tyler Kellmann. Carlos Matamoros followed with double of his own to left center to drive in two more runs and cap a five-run rally and regain the lead.
Sheehan Planas-Arteaga finished 3-for-5 with two RBI to pace the offense. Blaine Duncan (1-0) earned his first win of the season, allowing just one unearned run in 1.1 innings in relief.
Sophomore shortstop J.C. Cardenas scored three of the Bucs’ 16 runs and walked four times hitting out of the leadoff spot.
Barry is set to begin SSC play on Friday when the host the Mocs of Florida Southern College in the first of a three-game set. Live-stats and video broadcast will be available through the Barry University athletics website, GOBARRYBUCS.COM.