Score: VCU: 10, Norfolk State: 1
Location: Richmond, Va. (The Diamond)
Records: VCU 3-1, Charlotte 2-2 

THE SHORT STORY

The Rams used steady offense and impressive defense to defeat Norfolk State 10-1 Tuesday in VCU's home opener.

LEADING OFF

• Justin Sorokowski picked up his second start of the season. The junior hurled three innings, gave up just two hits, and fanned two Spartans.
• Senior Steven Carpenter led the charge offensively picking up two hits and three RBI.
• Sophomore Jaden Griffin was outstanding out of the bullpen picking up the victory by throwing three innings, giving up two hits, and striking out one.
• Tyler Locklear had his first collegiate multi-hit performance drilling two-singles on the evening. The freshman picked up his first two RBI of the season with a line drive over the second baseman in the seventh inning.
• The Rams were patient at the plate Tuesday, drawing seven walks and six hit batsmen.
• VCU was aggressive on the base paths swiping eight bags on the evening

HOW IT HAPPENED

• The Rams took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the second. Steven Carpenter led off the inning with a base hit to get things going. After a sacrifice bunt, Josh Simon walked before Brett Young drove a single into left field plating the first run of the game.
• VCU added two more runs in the bottom of the second when Brett Norwood knocked an RBI and Brett Young scored on a wild pitch.
• Norfolk State responded to the VCU lead in the third inning when Alsander Womack doubled to left field plating the only Spartan run.
• The Black and Gold capitalized once again when Steven Carpenter drove a 3-2 pitch down the left field line for a two-run double in the bottom of the third.
• VCU added three runs in the bottom of the sixth with a patient approach. The Rams drew three walks, including two hit batsmen for a 8-1 lead.
• After a leadoff hit by pitch, Paul Witt walked allowing Tyler Locklear to extend the Rams lead 10-1 with a 2-RBI single.
• The VCU bullpen was exceptional covering six innings of work, giving up six hits and stranding seven Norfolk State runners. 

NEXT UP

VCU welcomes Sacred Heart for a weekend series beginning on Friday, Feb. 21. First pitch is slated for 3 p.m. at The Diamond.