Buettner’s Big Day Not Enough as Kats Drop Twinbill to Niagara

SUNY Erie Baseball ran into a tough SUNY Niagara squad on Tuesday, dropping both ends of a doubleheader despite a strong offensive showing in game two.

In the opener, the Kats struggled to slow Niagara's early surge in a 14-2 loss. The Thunderwolves struck immediately with a pair of first-inning home runs and never let up, adding runs in each of the next three innings to build a commanding lead.

Rafael Smith took the loss on the mound, allowing 10 runs (seven earned) over three and one-third innings. Offensively, Tyler Pagano provided a bright spot, going a perfect 2-for-2 from the nine spot in the lineup as Erie collected six hits in the contest.

Game two saw a much more competitive effort from the Kats, but Niagara again pulled away late for a 15-7 win.

Niagara jumped ahead early, but Erie answered in the second inning, tying the game behind key hits from Kaleb Locatelli, Ryan Boyle, and Jim Buettner. The Thunderwolves regained control in the third inning and maintained the advantage the rest of the way.

Buettner led the way with a standout performance, driving in four runs on four hits, including a solo home run in the sixth inning. Boyle added two hits as Erie finished with eight total in the game.

Despite improved offensive production in the nightcap, the Kats were unable to contain Niagara's lineup, which racked up 15 hits to secure the sweep.

Erie will look to regroup and bounce back as they continue their schedule.