HILO, Hawai'i– The UH Hilo baseball team is off to a sizzling start, winning their first game of the six-game series against the University of Minnesota Crookston 6-2.

The Vulcans' pitching staff tossed 13 strikeouts, with James Yamasaki leading the pitching effort. The Freshman notched his first win under his belt, fanning six batters and only allowing two hits in five scoreless innings. 

UHH improves 5-1 overall, while the visiting Golden Eagles fall 2-2. 

The Vulcans backed up their pitchers on offense. Casey Yamauchi started the first inning with a deep double in left center. Eric Peterson then moved Yamauchi over to third with a base knock. Designated hitter Ryan Cho cleared the bases with a single down the middle, putting UHH on the board 2-0.

The Red and Black recorded nine more hits, stretching their lead to 6-2 before the night was over. Senior Jaryn Kanbara found the sweet spot, smoking a no-doubter over the left field fence (6-2).  

The Golden Eagles held UHH for the next three innings, but the Vulcans were able to return the favor to UMC. Takashi Umino and Alden Norquist combined to close the game in the final three innings, sitting down five batters.

Big Bats…Three Vulcans hit 500 and above including Yamauchi (3-5), Cho (2-4), and Christ Aubort (2-4).

Next Up..UH Hilo plays next tomorrow Friday, Feb. 11 at 6pm HST at Wong Stadium.