UNC Asheville Baseball Defeats Rider in Season Opener

UNC Asheville began their 2026 baseball season with a 6-1 victory over Rider University on February 20, 2026, at Greenwood Field. The Bulldogs showcased a strong offensive performance, highlighted by multiple home runs and key hits.

Game Summary

The game saw Rider score first in the third inning, but UNC Asheville quickly responded and took control, ultimately securing a decisive win. The final score was 6-1 in favor of UNC Asheville.

Key Moments

• 2nd Inning: Rider took an early lead with a home run by Klingemann.
• 3rd Inning: UNC Asheville answered with a double by Neri, K., driving in Gallagher, W., and a subsequent home run by B. Johnson, bringing in two runs.
• 4th Inning: Medlock, E. Hit a home run for Rider.
• 5th Inning: Neri, K. Reached on a fielder’s choice, scoring Gallagher, W.
• 6th Inning: Gallagher, W. Singled to right center, driving in Shuhet, N.
• 7th Inning: Shuhet, N. Singled, scoring Neri, K. T. Parks then hit a two-run home run.
• 9th Inning: Leahy, M. Singled to center field, scoring Shuhet, N.

Player Statistics

Rider:

• Paskell, A. (CF): 0-for-5, 1 BB
• Hartmann, E. (RF): 1-for-5, 2 RBI
• Neri, K. (LF): 1-for-5, 1 RBI
• Magoulic, C. (1B): 0-for-5
• Shuhet, N. (C): 2-for-5, 1 RBI
• Medlock, E. (2B): 1-for-4, 1 RBI
• Leahy, M. (SS): 1-for-3, 1 RBI
• Gallagher, W. (3B): 2-for-2, 2 RBI

UNC Asheville:

• Aiello, C. (P): Win (1-0)
• Turner, Drew (P): Loss (1-1)

Team Statistics

Rider: 6 Hits, 1 Run, 0 Errors

UNC Asheville: 7 Hits, 6 Runs, 2 Errors

Looking Ahead

UNC Asheville will seem to continue their strong start to the season in their next game, building on the momentum from this opening victory. Rider will aim to bounce back and secure their first win of the season.