Foley Cruises as River Monsters Take Season Opener

photo by: Joe Alexander 210gameday.com

By Zach Dworaczyk

SAN ANTONIO — As the sun set over the Texas sky and fans poured through the gates at Sullivan Field, one thing was clear: Texas Collegiate League baseball was back.

Looking to begin their first season within the San Antonio city limits on the right foot, the River Monsters wasted no time building momentum for the summer ahead.

The River Monsters struck first in the opening inning when Logan Pruski blasted a triple and later crossed the plate, becoming the first player in franchise history to score a run for the San Antonio River Monsters at Sullivan Field. The early spark energized both the dugout and the Opening Night crowd as San Antonio jumped out to an early advantage.

The San Antonio River Monsters earned their first victory at Sullivan Field on the campus of the University of the Incarnate Word, defeating the Sherman Shadowcats 4-2 on Tuesday night. The game was defined by strong pitching performances, led by River Monsters starter Matthew Foley, who tossed four shutout innings, while Sherman starter John Langehennig struggled to find his rhythm.

From the outset, Foley was in command. The right-hander threw 60 pitches across four scoreless innings, striking out six while allowing no hits and just two walks.

Foley said his aggressive approach in attacking the strike zone was key to his success.

“Just keep filling up the zone, and you'll find success,” Foley said.

Despite it being his first live outing in some time, Foley showed no signs of rust. Only two Shadowcats reached base during his four-inning performance.

San Antonio reliever Dylan Bohlke was equally impressive, striking out five batters over two scoreless innings while helping preserve the River Monsters' lead.

Bohlke's outing earned praise from his teammate.

“It's awesome. I was super happy for him,” Foley said. “He looked great.”

On the other side, Langehennig struggled on the mound, allowing four earned runs on three hits and one walk across 3 1/3 innings.

The River Monsters offense capitalized in the bottom of the fourth inning, chasing Langehennig from the game after a two-run double by left fielder Angel Ramirez.

Overall, it was an efficient night for San Antonio's offense, which scored four runs on five hits.

Those four runs proved to be more than enough, providing the River Monsters pitching staff with all the support they needed to secure the Opening Night victory.

“It was fun,” Foley said.

The win marks an important first step for a San Antonio team looking to establish itself in its new home ballpark and build momentum throughout the season.

“Great start to the year,” Foley said. “Just hoping to keep going.”

While only one game has been played, Foley said he is already looking forward to continuing to grow alongside his new teammates throughout the summer.

“Just having fun with my teammates and getting better every day,” Foley said.