FORT PIERCE, FL— The Houghton Highlanders brought their bats to work on Monday afternoon, pounding out 17 hits en route to a 17-7 victory over Northland College.
 
Houghton scored six runs in the first then tacked on four in third and six more in the fourth to take a commanding lead. 
 
David Wessells went a perfect 3-for-3 at the plate with a double, two stolen bases, three RBI, three runs scored and a walk.  John Zamites and Jason Kauffeldt also collected three hits apiece, and three more Highlanders added two apiece.
 
On the hill, Nick Melchiore earned his first win of the season, striking out three over three frames. 
 
In his first collegiate appearance, Trevor Ciccotti pitched four innings of relief, allowing only one earned run, while collecting six strikeouts.
 
GAME VITALS                           
Score: Houghton – 17 | Northland – 7
Records: Houghton: 2-2 | Northland: 1-4
Venue: Lawnwood Sports Complex, Field #3 | Attendance: 62
 
KEY STATS:
>> The Highlanders 17 hits tie their 2019 best, set on both March 9 vs. Wilkes University and again on April 6 vs. SUNY Canton.
 
>> The 17 Highlander runs are the most the team has scored in a single game since April 14, 2017, when they defeated Alfred State College, 23-9.
 
COACH'S CORNER:
"It was good to see our bats come alive, and to pick up a win in this fashion.  Our guys definitely came ready to play.
 
"There are a few things we still need to clean up, but I like the progress we're making.
 
"We got quality innings from our pitchers, and it was especially good to see Trevor Ciccotti throw so well in his first outing.
 
"We'll enjoy this one for a few more hours, but tomorrow is another day, and we'll come ready to work." –Coach Brian Reitnour
 
UP NEXT:
The Highlanders return to the Lawnwood Complex tomorrow at 12:00 p.m. to take on the Drew University Rangers.