Winter Springs, Fla. -- Fredonia State put together a mid-game surge but could not overcome an early deficit, falling 14-4 to Bates in their final Florida spring trip game. The Devils move to 1-9 on the season, while Bates improves to 7-1.

Bates struck early scoring two runs in the bottom of the first and erupted with five runs in the bottom of the second inning. A two-run double from Keagan Ryan highlighted the frame, while additional RBI hits came from Tyler Tucker, Gibby Sullivan, and David Swift extended the lead to 7-0. The Bobcats were extremely aggressive on the base paths, totaling 10 stolen bases in the game, including five from Ryan and three from Jack Margiloff.

Fredonia State's offense broke through in the sixth inning with Nick Vitelli singling down the left side and later scoring on a past ball to get the Devils on the board. In the seventh, Fredonia State's offense showed more life with Noah Panek doubling to get things started. Josh Warthling with the bases loaded followed with an RBI walk while Vitelli came through again later in the inning with an RBI single to cut the deficit to 10-4.

Bates answered in the eighth inning, putting the game out of reach with four runs. Vitelli led the Devils with two hits and two RBI, while Panek added a double and scored. Pitcher Jonah Church (1-2) got the start for the Devils, allowing two runs (one earned) in the opening inning. Landon Roach was charged with five runs in relief while Owen Ludwig, Maddox Sheesley, Zachary Zentz & Jayden Serotti made apperances as well. 

For Bates, Nolan Hobbs (1-0) earned the win with a strong 5.2 innings, allowing just one unearned run while striking out five.

Fredonia State will now turn its attention to SUNYAC conference play as it travels to face New Paltz at Loren Campbell Memorial Field. The Devils will play a single nine-inning game on Friday at 3:00 p.m., followed by a doubleheader on Saturday beginning at noon.