NASHVILLE, Tenn. – On a picture-perfect afternoon, Vanderbilt welcomed Michigan to Hawkins Field for the David Williams Fall Classic on Sunday as the Dores dropped a 3-2 decision to the visiting Wolverines.
Not only was it a rematch of last season’s College World Series finals, the game honored the late Vanderbilt vice chancellor for athletics and university affairs and athletic director, as well as diversity in baseball. In a tribute to the Negro Leagues, the Commodores participated as the Nashville Stars, while the Wolverines played as the Detroit Stars. Williams’ family was recognized prior to the game, and his son, Nick, threw out the first pitch.
Packed stands heard from @nlbmprez this before this afternoon’s contest of Nashville Stars vs. Detroit Stars.
Our student-athletes enjoyed an impactful trip to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum last month. #VandyBoys | #AnchorDown pic.twitter.com/hHQXzeFNmf
— Vanderbilt Baseball (@VandyBoys) November 10, 2019
True freshman Jack Leiter got the starting nod for the Commodores, and struck out four and walked two in 2.0 frames of work. Sam Hliboki faced six in 2.0 innings of work, fanning five of six batters faced.
In all, Commodore pitchers combined for an impressive 16 strikeouts and allowed three hits, with only one going for extra bases.
Trailing 2-0, Tate Kolwyck opened up the scoring for Vanderbilt in the third by crossing on a wild pitch.
The Commodores knotted the score at 2-2 in the eighth on a Spencer Jones single to shallow left. As the contest featured strong pitching and a limited amount of offense, the Wolverines plated an unearned run in the ninth for the final margin of victory.
CJ Rodriguez notched two of Vanderbilt’s five hits.
From The Hawk to Omaha and back again. ⚓️
Thank you for your continued support and dedication, @VU_Chancellor. #AnchorDown pic.twitter.com/aoqJkR2jBf
— Vanderbilt Athletics (@vucommodores) November 10, 2019
The Commodores return to Hawkins Field for the Black and Gold Series this Thursday and Friday. First pitch on both dates will be at 5 p.m.
