The Villanova baseball team continued to fight through the season this week, splitting a tough set of games against formidable foes in Lafayette and Penn. Tuesday’s Liberty Bell Classic game against Lafayette was a battle in which both offenses were featured. In a 12-10 thriller, the Leopards were able to hold off a late ‘Nova rally to even their record at 12-12.

Senior Craig Mirsky led the way with a strong four hit performance, while Derek Shunk contributed with two hits and three runs batted in. Jeremy Hunt also chipped in with a home run in the fourth inning to continue his power tear as of late. The homer was his third in five games. Ryan Arcadia scored three runs, and Joe Rosati went 2-for-4.

The ninth inning got exciting when sophomore James Dolbier drove in two runs, followed by an error which allowed two more to score. But with the tying run on base, Lafayette was able to get the final out to end the game, advancing to the title game of the Liberty Bell Classic.

The next day brought a new challenge in Penn, and once again the offense was red hot, delivering its second consecutive 10 run game. Villanova won 10-7 to move to 13-14 on the season, one game away from 500. Dolbier was the offensive catalyst, with three runs, two hits and a homer. Shunk had a monster game, going 3-for-5 with 3 RBIs, including a long home run. Hunt continued to be red hot, going 2-for-3, including another home run. Catcher Wesley Borden also continued offensively with two hits of his own.

Frank Jankowski, the former starting quarterback for Villanova, entered the game in relief and pitched a scoreless one and a third innings for the win. Jordan Ellis, Bill Hoffman and Gus Guida also combined in the solid pitching performance.

The ‘Cats will now head back out on the road to face UConn in a Big East conference showdown this weekend. Look for the offense to continue to explode, as the ‘Cats make a push for a winning record and yet another successful season.