Spring Break
'Hawks sweep Blue Devils with late rally
Chris Kuhagen
Issue date: 4/16/08 Section: Sports
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Due to inclement weather the 'Hawks and Blue Devils officially began the four-game set in Minneapolis' Metrodome Saturday at 1 a.m., but UW-Whitewater's 20-17 come-from-behind victory will be the game most likely remembered.
After winning the first three games of the series, the 'Hawks dug themselves into a 14-3 hole in the fourth inning of the finale. However, as the team has done many times this season, UW-Whitewater used its explosive hitting to prevail.
After Warhawk senior Billy Johnson was hit by a pitch to lead off the fourth inning, the improbable comeback was underway. Sophomore Mike Kenseth then drew a walk, and a plethora of hits and runs followed, cutting UW-Stout's lead to two runs. Later in the inning, sophomore Jeff Donovan and junior Kevin Zalnis both hit home runs, giving the 'Hawks their first lead of the game, one they did not relinquish.
"The comeback was a total team effort, as each individual did their part and did it by getting one hit at a time," said Donovan, who had six RBIs in the comeback win. "We just wanted to keep scoring and didn't try to do too much at the plate."
Although the Blue Devils responded with three runs in the top of the fifth, the 'Hawks answered back with two runs in their half of the inning. UW-Whitewater tacked on another run in the sixth to secure the win, as the game lasted only six innings due to darkness.
Following the series sweep, Vodenlich acknowledged the comeback as a sign of a good team, but realized his team has not reached its full potential.
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