CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Sophomore James Hays was dominant on the mound Friday, striking out a career-high eight batters over seven strong innings to lead the Stetson Hatters past Queens, 12-1.

Hays (2-0) allowed just one run on two hits and two walks while fanning eight for Stetson (26-14, 15-2 ASUN). Sophomore Matthew Heyl also contributed on the mound, tossing a scoreless eighth inning with one strikeout, one walk, and no hits allowed.

The Hatters outhit the Royals 13-2, with every starter reaching base safely. Isaiah Barkett led the way with three hits, while Lorenzo Meola collected two extra-base hits, including his team-leading eighth home run of the season. Foster Apple and Nelphie Lopez also homered in the win. Landon Moran and Jordan Taylor each added extra-base hits as well.

Stetson was sharp with runners in scoring position, going 5-for-10 (.500). On the basepaths, Barkett and sophomore Juan De La Cruz each swiped three bases.

After falling behind 1-0 in the second inning, the Hatters responded quickly. Freshman Foster Apple launched his first career home run, a two-run shot, to highlight a three-run frame that put Stetson in front.

The offense stayed hot in the third inning as Meola and Lopez each homered, extending the Hatters' lead to 6-1. Stetson tacked on another run in the fourth on Meola's two-out RBI double.

Stetson held the Royals scoreless before expanding their lead in the sixth inning. Junior Isaiah Barkett crossed home plate on a double steal for the lone run of the inning for the Hatters, bringing the Stetson advantage to 8-1.

The Hatters held Queens scoreless before expanding their lead to 12-1 in the eighth inning. The Stetson offense piled up four runs, highlighted by a one-run double off the bat of Moran. 

Stetson will return to the diamond tomorrow at 1:00 PM as they look to complete the series sweep against the Queens Royals in Charlotte.