PEARL - The Belhaven Baseball team started its 2025 campaign on a strong note, rallying late to secure a 7-3 victory over Mount Saint Mary at Trustmark Park.

The Blazers jumped out to an early 3-0 lead, scoring once in the first inning on an RBI single by Cole Fletcher and adding two more in the second. The visitors responded with a three-run third inning, capitalizing on a throwing error and a sacrifice fly to even the game.

The game remained deadlocked in the middle innings until Belhaven broke through in the seventh. Multiple walks and wild pitches allowed the Blazers to plate four runs and pull away for good. Josh Neutze, who reached base five times, played a key role, scoring twice and driving in a run. Owen Abney added an RBI single in the pivotal seventh inning.

On the mound, starter Colton Sylvester pitched six solid innings, allowing just one earned run while striking out six. Freshman lefty Lane Alack came in for relief, shutting down the Knights over the final three innings to earn the win in his collegiate debut.

Belhaven's discipline at the plate was a major factor in the win as the Blazers drew 16 walks while stealing four bags.

Key Performers

Josh Neutze: Reached base five times (two walks, hit by pitch), stole two bases, scored twice, and drove in a run
Colton Sylvester: 6.0 IP, 4 H, 3 R (1 ER), 6 K, 3 BB.
Lane Alack (W, 1-0): 3.0 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 3 K, 0 BB
Owen Abney: 1-for-5, RBI single in the seventh inning
Hunter Harrell: 2-for-3, reached base four times, scored once

In Game 2, Belhaven batted around and plated in six in the home half of the first before rain forced a suspension. The game will pick up where it left off at 11:00 AM tomorrow with the series finale to follow.

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