Staff report

HOUSTON — Jake Hunter (East Rowan) was a two-way hero for East Carolina’s baseball team in Saturday’s 5-3 win against Rice in 11 innings.

After a host of substitutions, Hunter made a rare appearance as a hitter in the top of the 11th in a 3-all game. He got a hit, singling through the right side.

After an infield single, a throwing error and a wild pitch, Hunter cross the plate with his first collegiate run.

Hunter (2-2) came into the game as a relief pitcher in the ninth. He struck out the side in the bottom of the 11th to earn the win.

He threw 25 of 31 pitches for strikes.