COLUMBIA, S.C. (February 10, 2008) – The Lincoln University of Pennsylvania baseball team began its 2008 season by dropping a pair of games to Benedict College, 6-3 and 16-7.

Despite the defeats, there were plenty of positives for the Lions (0-2). Percy Bullock (Pittsburgh, PA/Susquehanna Twp.) became the first freshman player to hit a home run in his first plate appearance. Bullock slugged a two-run game-tying home run in the top of the second inning of the first game. Also in the first game, Harvey Barnes (Richmond, VA/Peekskill) scored two runs and Duane Wyse (Philadelphia, PA/West Catholic) stole two bases.

In the second game, Lincoln could not overcome a pair of big innings from the hosts. Benedict, the reigning SIAC champions, scored five runs in the bottom of the first innings and eight runs in the bottom of the fifth inning. Lincoln continued to battle back.

Duane Wyse (Philadelphia, PA/West Catholic) and Melvin Lopez each drove in a pair of runs for the Lions in the nightcap. The Lions scored four runs in the top of the sixth inning. Lopez's hit in the first inning scored Wyse to give Lincoln a 1-0 lead.

Lincoln baseball coach Doug Thompson was encouraged with the effort of his players considering this was their first time being able to play together outside. The winter weather at Lincoln had not allowed the baseball team an opportunity to practice outdoors.

Lincoln concludes its three-game set against Benedict Monday afternoon beginning at 2:00 p.m.