3 Falcons homer in route to win over MCLA

FITCHBURG, Mass. — The Fitchburg State baseball team put together one of its most complete offensive performances of the season, powering past MCLA with a 15–7 victory.

The Basics

Score: Fitchburg State 15, MCLA 7

Records: Fitchburg State (5-21, 3-11 MASCAC), MCLA (8-15, 2-9 MASCAC)

How it Happened

MCLA struck first in the opening inning, but Fitchburg State responded immediately in the bottom half. Michael Cooper jumpstarted the Falcons with a three-run home run to left field, scoring Tyler Fonck and Jason Kelly to give Fitchburg State a 3–1 advantage. The Falcons continued to build momentum in the second inning, plating four more runs. Fonck delivered a two-run double, while Joseph Abt followed with a two-run single to extend the lead to 7–1. The early offensive surge proved critical, as Fitchburg State consistently applied pressure and forced MCLA to play from behind.

After MCLA added a run in the third, Fitchburg State answered again in the fourth inning with another big frame. Fonck highlighted the inning with a three-run home run, and Abt added a solo shot as the Falcons stretched their lead to 11–2. Fitchburg State added two more runs in the fifth inning, capitalizing on defensive miscues to push the advantage to 13–2. While MCLA attempted to chip away with a three-run sixth inning and two more runs in the eighth, the Falcons remained in control. The Falcons capped their scoring in the eighth inning with two additional runs, including sacrifice flies from Liam Currier and Fonck to seal the 15–7 final.

Fonck led the offensive charge with a dominant performance, going 4-for-4 with six RBI, including a home run and a double. Abt added two hits and three RBI, while Cooper contributed three RBI on his first-inning homer. Kelly reached base consistently and scored five runs, setting the table for the Falcons' lineup. On the mound, Nolan Berkeley earned the win with five innings of work, allowing four runs while navigating traffic. The bullpen trio of Thomas Watts, Dan Palmer, and Owen Corcoran combined to close out the game and secure the victory.

By the Numbers

• Fitchburg State scored 15 runs, marking one of its most productive offensive performances of the season.
• The Falcons recorded 14 hits, showing consistent production throughout the lineup.
• Fitchburg State hit three home runs, with Michael Cooper, Tyler Fonck, and Joseph Abt each going deep.
• Tyler Fonck drove in six RBI, leading all players and pacing the offense.
• Jason Kelly scored five runs, setting the tone at the top of the lineup.
• The Falcons scored seven runs in the first two innings, establishing early control of the game.
• Fitchburg State used four pitchers to combine for the complete game effort on the mound.
• The pitching staff issued eight walks, an area to improve despite the win.
• The Falcons committed just one error.

Up Next

The Falcons will get 3 days off before hosting Massachusetts Maritime on Friday at 3 PM.

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