The New Orleans Privateers defeated the University of the Incarnate Word Cardinals 11-7 at Maestri Field on March 15, scoring eight runs in the first three innings to secure the win.
The game was highlighted by strong offensive performances from several Privateers players. Eli Tidwell hit his fifth home run of the season to open the scoring for New Orleans. Bryson Goff pitched an efficient first inning, retiring the side on just 12 pitches. After UIW tied the game in the second inning, New Orleans regained and held onto their lead with two runs in their half of the second, including RBI singles from Kruise Newman and Owen Smith.
In the third inning, Eddie Castillo hit a grand slam over the left field fence, extending New Orleans’ lead to 7-1. The Privateers added another run that inning to make it 8-1. Although UIW’s Jake Weaver hit two home runs in consecutive innings to cut into the lead, New Orleans maintained control of the game.
Goff earned his third win of the season while Jack Garvey struck out seven batters over three innings as a bridge to closer Luke Lycette, who recorded two strikeouts in the ninth. The pitching staff combined for a season-high 14 strikeouts.
Offensively, Miles Curley contributed with his first home run of the year—a two-run shot in the sixth—while Kareh Valentin drove in another run in the seventh. The team stole six bases during the game, with Evan Rogers accounting for two steals along with two hits and two runs scored. Curley, Smith, Valentin, and Newman each had two hits as well.
Looking ahead, New Orleans will begin a five-game week starting with a matchup against Tulane on Tuesday evening.
