MYRTLE BEACH, S.C – Five runs in the fifth inning propelled the Johnson & Wales University baseball team to victory in its season opener. The Wildcats defeated the College of St. Elizabeth, 9-5, on Tuesday at the Ripken Experience Complex.

Records:
St. Elizabeth: 1-4
Johnson & Wales: 1-0

Statistical Leaders:
Colby Greenhalgh (JWU): 3-4, 1 R, 2 RBI
Alex Domingos (JWU): 2-4, 2 R
Armani Henderson (JWU): 2-4, 4 RBI, 1 R

Of Note:
Johnson & Wales capitalized on the long ball with a trio of home runs. JWU hadn't hit three home runs in a game since it belted a trio versus Curry on April 3, 2012.

Vin Amalfitano's first collegiate home run, a two-run shot to right field, opened a 3-0 lead for the Wildcats in the fourth.

The big blow was Armani Henderson's grand slam in the fifth that extended the JWU margin to 8-1.

St. Elizabeth crept back into the game with four runs off reliever Justin Perez.

Colby Greenhalgh added an insurance run with a solo home run.

In a controlled start, junior Steve Rocchio got the victory by not giving up a hit with two strikeouts in two innings of work.

Up Next:
Johnson & Wales plays twice on Wednesday with games against Christopher Newport (11 AM) and Moravian (2:30 PM).