Southern University Baseball Triumphs Bleu Devils in Home Opener

The most successful athletic program on the Southern University Baton Rouge campus returned. The Southern University baseball team recently had its home opener against the Dillard Bleu Devils. The atmosphere of the night resembled a joyous family reunion, infused with the rhythm of a DJ and Southern culture. Anticipating positive changes, the team is set to benefit from the installation of 20-second pitch clocks, a new camera system, enhanced lighting, and padded fencing. Lee-Hines Field was ready to see its Jaguars in action.
In the initial innings, Southern secured an early lead by picking up two runs in the bottom of the first inning. However, the Blue Devils swiftly responded, matching the score with two runs in the top of the second inning. The game’s dynamic nature continued as Southern gained momentum, amassing nine runs over the next four innings. Dillard fought back, scoring three runs, but it wasn’t enough to thwart Southern’s full control of the contest.
Jerry Burkett II, the team’s Left-Handed Pitcher and senior, played a pivotal role, securing his first win of the season. Burkett’s stellar performance on the mound set the tone for the Jaguars’ impressive display.
After a deep dive into the numbers, Southern concluded the day with eleven hits, while Dillard managed seven hits. The Jaguars showcased defensive prowess with only one error compared to Dillard’s two. Leaving nine of its runners on base, Southern demonstrated their offensive capabilities, while Dillard left seven of its runners stranded. Notably, Southern struck out seven times, while Dillard faced thirteen strikeouts.
Junior outfielder Logan Sanders initiated the scoring for the Jaguars with the first run of the day, capitalizing on an error by the Blue Devils’ catcher. Junior outfielder Khyle Radcliffe stood out with an outstanding four-hit performance, while junior catcher Dominic Joseph contributed two hits. Junior infielder Marcus Sanders, sophomore catcher Donny Sandifer, graduate outfielder Tyeler Hawkins, sophomore outfielder Jacoby Radcliffe, and Sanders each added one run to the scoreboard.
Insight into the team’s depth, seven different Jaguar batters recorded hits, with Radcliffe achieving a season-high four hits in a single game.
Jerry Burkett II, in reflecting on the team’s journey, expressed confidence in the current in-house camaraderie, citing minor setbacks and major jumps. The team remains adaptable, understanding their roles on the field, and seizing opportunities to create a lasting legacy for the team.
As Burkett puts it, “Winning is going to keep the stands packed and help us bring that extra energy that we need day to day.” The Southern University Jaguar baseball team is hoping for an exhilarating season, filled with determination, teamwork, and a commitment to leaving a lasting legacy on the field. The next time the Jags will be at home will be against Southern University New Orleans (SUNO) on March 5th, at 6 PM.