Box Score Video Highlights

CARY, N.C. – St. Edward's starting pitcher BRANNON EASTERLING registered his nation-leading 14^th complete game of the season with a 1-0 shutout of Grand Canyon in the opening round of the 2013 NCAA DII World Series at the USA Baseball National Training Complex.
 
St. Edward's (43-16) provided Easterling all the run support he needed in the fourth inning when CUTTER RUNTE led off with a single to centerfield. After moving to second on a sacrifice and third on a groundout, Nate Bobrowoski coaxed a two-out walk. Bobrowski would then take off for second and force a rundown, while Runte headed for home on the double steal. Runte and the ball arrived at the same time and the Hilltopper leftfielder jarred the ball loose, while tagging home plate for the only run of the game. Easterling and the Hilltopper defense took it from there.
 
Grand Canyon (39-17) had its best chance to score in the sixth inning when Michael Pomeroy led off with a single. After advancing to second on a sacrifice, Steven Swingle would single to right field. As Pomeroy rounded third headed for home, Hilltopper rightfielder JOE PIROZZOLO came up throwing. His throw was on the money as catcher C.J. Manning made the tag to preserve the shutout.
 
Easterling picked up the pace from there, striking out four Antelopes in the final three innings. The final two were looking and they ended the game.
 
Easterling (14-3) is now tied for the national lead in victories with Mount Olive's Alex Regan. He also leads the nation in innings pitched with 132.2 in 18 starts.
 
St. Edward's will take on Tampa in round two on Tuesday. First pitch is set for 7:00 p.m. EST at the USA Baseball National Training Facility. Tampa defeated Coker College earlier today, 12-4. Live video and stats will be offered on the Hilltopper Athletic Website.