For the first time since the 2003 season, the Buffalo baseball team won its season opener. The win marked the first victory for new head coach Ron Torgalski,
"It was exciting and great to finally get playing after practicing all fall and the past five weeks here in the cold weather," Torgalski said. "It was nice to be outside and see how we stand up against another opponent and the kids played hard, it shows they are buying into how we want them to play every time we step on the field."
The Delaware State Hornets were scheduled to host the Bulls for a three day stand Friday, Saturday and Sunday. However, due to weather conditions both Friday evenings and Sunday afternoon's matches were cancelled leaving Buffalo with a win, but thirsty for more.
The Bulls (1-0) won in convincing fashion Saturday afternoon cruising past the Hornets (0-5) 14-5. Buffalo jumped right out of the gates taking a quick 3-0 lead in the top of the first and didn't look back. The Bulls chalked up runs in the third, fourth, sixth, seventh, eighth and ninth innings to power their 14 run day. Making the most of its opportunities, the Bulls totaled 13 hits and 14 runs batted in. The 14 runs are the most scored by a Buffalo team on opening day since 1976 when the Bulls put up 15 runs against Iowa.
"It started right in the first inning with a walk, a double, and a few hits. We swung the bats well the whole game," Torgalski said. "Being their first day outside I expected the guys to struggle a bit but we had 13 hits and a handful of walks, it was surprising but it was great to see."
Senior pitcher Adam Ruszkowski took the mound to start for the Bulls, but got in some trouble in the third and fourth innings as he gave up four runs.
Looking to his bullpen, Torgalski went with youth as he called in freshman James Flatley for relief. Flatley pitched superb, allowing only three hits in five innings of work, picking up his first collegiate win. Flatley also recorded five strikeouts in his collegiate debut.
Sophomore relief pitcher Zach Anderson pitched the ninth inning for the Bulls to seal the strong road win. Buffalo pitchers controlled themselves well only walking two batters and striking out 10.
"We're looking at these games as opportunities to get some young guys in there to see what they can do before conference play starts," Torgalski said. "We're probably going to have to do it a few more times in the upcoming weekends, just seeing where guys fit."
Offensively the Bulls were paced by a great team effort. Junior designated hitter Chris Ciesla and sophomore second baseman Brad Agustin had each had three hits on the afternoon. Ciesla also drove in four runs for Buffalo.
Junior catcher Rick Oliveri and sophomore outfielder James Piazza each had two hits for the blue and white. The Bulls also played very well defensively for their first game outside only allowing one error.
The Bulls are on a long road trip, playing in six different states from now until their first home game, which is all the way on March 28.
"We are facing some good competition and gives these guys a chance to travel and face teams we normally can't play," Torgalski said. "On the other hand it can also take its toll on you, but a lot of our guys are use to that. From a coaching standpoint it is great for team unity and it is a great opportunity to get the team closer."
The Bulls continue their winter travel as they head out west to Reno, Nev. to face the Nevada Wolfpack (4-7) for another three-day series. The first pitch is scheduled for 5 p.m. eastern time on Friday, Feb. 23.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
