MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The Southwestern University baseball team dropped its 2016 season opener, 7-2, against Firehouse Classic host Huntingdon on Friday evening at Posey Field.

The Pirates (0-1), who were limited to four hits on the night, scored both of their runs in the opening frame.

Zach McGrady struck out four and allowed only three hits and two runs (one earned) over seven stanzas to pick up the win for the Hawks (1-0).

Meanwhile, Josh Bray was saddled with the loss after yielding four runs (three earned) on four hits over 2.1 panels. The right-hander, who made his collegiate debut on Friday, also struck out three and walked three.

Southwestern's early scoring came after Will Cates led off the contest with a single. Ben Little then doubled to drive in Cates. Little also scored in the frame on Clayton Sparks' groundout.

Huntingdon scored at least one run in each of the first three innings to quickly overtake the Pirates.

The Hawks then tacked on three runs in fifth to pull away for good.

Alec Raley paced the hosts with a trio of hits, including a double.

Southwestern will resume action Saturday with a pair of contests. The Pirates will take on Randolph-Macon at 10 a.m. and then conclude the opening weekend versus Millsaps at 5 p.m.

– SOUTHWESTERN –