VERO BEACH, Fla. | Alabama State University baseball opened play in the Andre Dawson Classic with an 11–4 victory over Florida A&M University on Friday at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex.
The Hornets (3-2) used a four-run fifth inning and a three-run sixth to seize control, while the pitching duo of Juan LaBoy and Joseph Peterson limited the Rattlers to four runs on seven hits.
Key Performers — Alabama State
Leading Hitters
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Miguel Oropeza: 3-for-4, 3 runs, 2 RBI, walk
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Alex Espaillat: 1-for-5, 3 RBI, 3-run HR
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Jackson Williams: 1-for-5, 2 RBI, double
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Trey Callaway: 1-for-5, HR, RBI
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Devein Chandler: 1-for-3, 2 runs, 2 walks
Oropeza ignited the offense from the leadoff spot, reaching base four times and driving in two runs, while Espaillat's three-run homer in the fifth inning broke the game open. Callaway added a solo shot in the second to tie the game.
Pitchers of Record
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Win: Jorhan LaBoy (2-0) — 5.1 IP, 6 H, 4 ER, 4 BB, 4 K
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Save: Joseph Peterson (1) — 3.2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 3 BB, 2 K
LaBoy weathered a two-run first inning before settling in, and Peterson closed the door with 3⅔ scoreless innings to secure the save.
Game Summary
Alabama State struck first in the opening inning on Williams' RBI double, but Florida A&M answered with two runs in the bottom half. Callaway's solo homer in the second evened the score, setting the stage for the decisive middle innings.
The Hornets broke through in the fifth when Espaillat launched a three-run homer to center, capping a four-run frame. Alabama State followed with three more runs in the sixth, highlighted by RBI singles from Oropeza and C. Clark, extending the lead to 9–2.
Florida A&M plated two runs in the sixth, but Alabama State added insurance in the ninth to seal the 11–4 win.
By the Numbers
Alabama State continues play in the Andre Dawson Classic on Saturday as the Hornets take on Gramblng State at 11 a.m. (CT).
