THOMASVILLE, Ga. — Despite a season‑best offensive surge, Thomas University couldn't overcome eight defensive errors Friday night, falling 14–11 to Warner (FL) at Varnedoe Stadium.
Warner's offense was fueled by a dominant performance from Gabriel Rodriguez, who went 4-for-4 with five runs, three RBI, a home run and five stolen bases. The Royals (5–3) also received a four‑hit night from Patty Smith, who doubled twice and scored three times.
Thomas matched Warner swing‑for‑swing early behind Elias Garcia, who went 4-for-5 with three runs, a double and a stolen base, and Seth Waltimyer, who delivered a three‑run homer for the first time in his career during the Night Hawks' four‑run fifth inning. Jalen Roque added three RBI, including a two‑run double in the fourth.
Warner blew the game open with a five‑run sixth inning, capitalizing on three Thomas errors and wild pitches. In total, Thomas committed eight errors, leading to multiple unearned runs that swung the momentum.
Thomas' bullpen struggled to contain Warner's baserunning pressure Warner stole six bases.
The Night Hawks put the tying run on base in the late innings but were held quiet by Warner reliever Easton Nunez, who threw 2.2 allowing only four hits, one run, two walks, and struck out three to close the game.
