jdredmon@mavs.coloradomesa.edu

Slow starts are not what the Mavs had in mind coming off of their second RMAC-winning season in a row. However, they have now dropped each of their three opening games against opponents this season.

The third came Friday after losing to Grand Canyon University 9-0, and is already more than they had all last season. They have been outscored 20-4 in series openers while posting a 6-1 record and outscoring the same teams by 23 runs in the ensuing games.

“We’ve struggled getting ready, and our bats have been slow,” starting pitcher Nolan Snell said. “Once we get going and start to get our attention on the games, we’ll be better.”

Friday’s starter, Matt Williams (1-1), kept the game to a manageable 1-0 defict through the first three innings (the only run coming off of GCU’s Nick Chapman stealing home in the first inning). However, with no run support, the game quickly got out of hand, and Williams allowed 5 earned runs in the fourth inning, leaving Hanks to turn to his relievers after 3.2 innings.

Snell (1-1) and Joey Danner (1-0), both pitching for the first time since Feb. 3, were the starters for CMU on Saturday and Sunday and were able to keep the Lopes in check. They allowed a combined three runs while striking out 14 in 13 innings pitched.

“I just took responsibility and tried to up the intensity,” Snell said of his performance in Saturday’s win. “We were sluggish the day before, but I think [Danner and I] both had great days.”

The Mavericks took the series with 6-2 and 7-3 wins, respectively and brought their record to 6-4 on the year. Senior Erik Kozel led the team offensively, hitting 5 for 8 over the weekend, scoring three runs and stealing four bases.

They return to Suplizio Field this weekend to open up RMAC play against winless Colorado Christian University (0-7) in doubleheaders on Saturday and Sunday.