DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Ryan Ayrey continued his strong start to the 2020 season in Bethune-Cookman's 6-1 loss to FIU Tuesday at Jackie Robinson Ballpark.

The junior first baseman had two hits for the third time in as many games, including his fourth double. Ayrey concluded opening weekend ranked tenth in the nation in doubles per game (1.0)

Coached by BCU Hall of Famer Mervyl Melendez, the Panthers (4-0) broke open a 1-1 tie to to hand the Wildcats (3-1) their first loss of the season.

Ayrey, Shamir Morales, and Colton Olasin – the 7-8-9 portion of the BCU line-up, combined for four of the five Wildcat hits.  Morales produced BCU's only run with his second inning infield single that brought home Rafael Padilla.

Brady Norris took the loss, striking out five but walking four and giving up three earned runs. Knickolas Billings struck out two in his two innings of work.

Steven Ortiz, Jordan Pinto and Carlos LeQuerica combined on four innings of shutout relief.

BCU hosts Central Connecticut State for a three-game series beginning Friday night.

HEAD COACH JONATHAN HERNANDEZ

"Our guys competed all game. "I'm proud of the fight in our team that they showed tonight. Tonight we didn't capitalize on opportunities."

"Coaching against Mervyl is always great. Our friendship extends beyond just the competitive atmosphere as it was tonight. I'm looking forward to the next match-up [April 7 in Miami]."

NOTES: Melendez is now 4-0 vs. Hernandez … Josten Heron and Chase DeBonis have reached safely in all four games.