Salem University put together a dominant offensive showing and a strong all-around performance on Sunday, sweeping a doubleheader against Charleston at Nutter Fort.
Game 1: Salem 17, Charleston 6
After falling behind early, Salem's bats erupted in a big way—highlighted by a nine-run third inning that broke the game wide open.
Charleston jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first, but Salem responded immediately. A three-run home run from Cody Thomas capped a four-run bottom half to give Salem a 4-3 edge.
The Golden Eagles added two more runs in the second before the decisive third inning. Salem sent 14 batters to the plate and piled up five hits along with help from defensive miscues, scoring nine runs to take a commanding 15-4 lead.
Thomas finished with a huge game at the plate, driving in five runs, while Aaron Forbes also delivered five RBIs on three hits. Brandon Hoftijzer added two RBIs, and multiple players contributed as Salem totaled 11 hits.
On the mound, Otho Savage earned the win in relief, tossing three scoreless innings with four strikeouts to stabilize things after the early deficit.
Game 2: Salem 8, Charleston 1
Salem carried that momentum into the second game, using timely hitting and solid pitching to complete the sweep.
The Tigers struck first in the opening inning, as Aaron Forbes drove in Reese Rinna to give Salem a 1-0 lead.
Salem added two more runs in the second—capitalizing on Charleston errors—and then broke the game open with a three-run third inning. RBI contributions from Jimmy Laforce, Max Castro, and Brandon Hoftijzer helped extend the lead to 6-0.
Forbes continued his strong day, going 2-for-2 with an RBI and two runs scored, while Castro led the team with three RBIs. Joe Wintermute also reached base three times and drove in a run.
On the mound, Brian Kendall delivered a strong start, allowing just one run over five innings while striking out six to earn the win. Zach Allen closed the door with two scoreless innings and four strikeouts.
Up Next
With the sweep, Salem showcased both offensive firepower and pitching depth, combining for 25 runs across the two games. The Tigers will look to carry that momentum forward as they continue conference play.
