Elon Works Ninth-Inning Magic to Down Samford, 1-0

CHARLESTON, S.C. ? Pinch runner David Wood stole third base and came home on a throwing error by the catcher to score the only run in No. 4 seed Elon’s 1-0 win over No. 5 Samford in game four of the  2010 Bennett Hofford Southern Conference Baseball Championship presented by Carolina Ford Dealers on Wednesday.

Elon (37-20) will take on No. 1 seed The Citadel Thursday at 5 p.m. in the winner’s bracket. Samford (30-24) will face Furman at 1 p.m.

All-Conference pitcher Jimmy Reyes tossed a complete-game shutout to earn the win, scattering six hits while striking out nine Samford hitters.

First baseman Ryan Adams led off for the Phoenix in the bottom of the ninth with a double and David Wood was brought in to pinch run. Following a Scott Riddle walk and a failed sacrifice attempt, Wood took off for third to force the game-ending error.

Riddle finished 2-for-3 to lead the Phoenix

Shortstop Michael Johnson led Samford, going 2-for-4.

Samford starting pitcher Jonathan Stephens was left with a no decision despite throwing seven shutout innings of his own. The senior also notched nine strikeouts while surrendering five hits.

Andrew Jones (5-3), who entered the game in relief in the eighth inning, suffered the loss. He gave up two hits and struck out one batter.

Each team stranded seven runners while Samford committed two errors.