The Centenary University baseball team took a major step toward a championship run on Saturday, May 2nd, sweeping the season series and dominating a crucial doubleheader with a commanding 6-1 and 13-3 victory over Immaculata University to help secure the No. 1 seed in the Atlantic East Conference Playoffs.
The Cyclones' offense set the tone early, exploding for 15 hits in a well-balanced attack. Three different players recorded three-hit performances, while five Cyclones finished with multiple hits, showcasing the depth and consistency of Centenary's lineup.
Leading the charge was
Dominick Chiego, who continued his standout season by going 3-for-4 at the plate with three RBIs. His performance was highlighted by a milestone moment, as he drove in his 100th career RBI in a Cyclones uniform.
Joseph Frei and
Chris Clark joined Chiego with three hits apiece, helping keep constant pressure on the Immaculata pitching staff throughout the game.
Derek DePace also made a strong impact offensively, tallying two hits and driving in a pair of runs to further fuel the Cyclones' scoring effort.
On the mound, freshman
Brannon McBride delivered a dominant performance, continuing what has been an impressive debut season. McBride tossed a complete-game seven-inning gem, allowing just three hits and one run while striking out two. He kept the Immaculata lineup off balance all game, efficiently working through innings and preserving the Cyclones' lead.
After putting up 15 hits in game one, the Cyclones offense stayed scorching hot, matching that total with another 15-hit performance in game two. The lineup once again proved relentless from top to bottom, consistently applying pressure and delivering in key moments.
Joseph Frei led the offensive explosion with an impressive four-hit performance, setting the tone throughout the game.
Dominick Chiego continued his standout day at the plate, going 3-for-4 with three RBIs, while sophomore
Cole Schulberg delivered a breakout performance with three hits and five RBIs to power the Cyclones' scoring surge.
On the mound,
Louie Vassallo turned in a strong outing to secure the win. The right-hander tossed six innings, allowing six hits and three runs while striking out three. Vassallo worked efficiently and kept Immaculata at bay as the Cyclones steadily built their lead.
The sweep not only capped off a dominant day but also marked a historic milestone for the program. For the first time since joining the Atlantic East, Centenary has claimed the regular season title and will host the conference playoffs at Our Diamond of Dreams.
With postseason implications on the line—where a loss could have put their playoff hopes in jeopardy—the Cyclones rose to the occasion in emphatic fashion. Under the leadership of head coach Romanella, Centenary delivered a statement performance, showcasing resilience, preparation, and championship-level execution.
The Cyclones will return to action on Wednesday as they host the opening round of the Atlantic East Playoffs, looking to carry their momentum into a deep postseason run.
