BRONX, N.Y. - The Manhattan Jaspers baseball team suffered a 7-2 defeat against the Iona Gaels on Saturday afternoon at Houlihan Park.
With the loss, the Jaspers' season record drops to 10-22, with a 4-7 standing in MAAC Conference play. Meanwhile, Iona advances to 5-26 overall, securing their first conference victory of the season, 1-0.
Chase O'Neill took the loss after pitching 3.1 innings, conceding two earned runs on seven hits, along with two walks and a strikeout.
At the plate, Daniel Perez led Manhattan with a pair of hits.
Iona seized an early advantage, scoring three runs in the first inning courtesy of a pair of doubles and an outfield throwing error that resulted in two unearned runs.
In the second inning, Iona's free passes allowed Manhattan to notch its first run, but despite loading the bases, the Green and White failed to capitalize on any additional scoring opportunities.
Manhattan's lone run in the fifth inning came from a powerful triple by Drew Wyers, followed by a deep single to center from Chase Swain. However, a double play halted their late rally.
Iona continued to add runs in the second, fourth, and seventh innings, securing the victory.
The series finale between Manhattan and Iona is scheduled for a noon first pitch.