The Hope College baseball team erupted for an 18-6, series-opening victory against Otterbein University in seven innings Friday at Jennings Park in Lewis Center.

The Flying Dutchmen scored their most runs in a game since a 19-4 victory against Calvin University on April 27, 2023, despite the run-rule-shortened game.

Sophomore shortstop Colton Kinnie (Bloomfield Hills, Michigan/Birmingham Seaholm) powered the Orange and Blue's 16-hit attack, finishing 5-for-5 with five RBIs.

Kinnie smacked a three-run homer — his first of the season — along with two doubles and two RBI singles.

Sophomore left fielder Corbin Bennetts (Jenison, Michigan/Jenison) also homered, delivering a go-ahead solo blast to spark a two-run third inning. Bennetts collected two hits and three RBIs.

Senior designated hitter Charlie Saul (Batavia, Illinois/Batavia) went 3-for-4 with a double and three RBIs.

Freshman catcher Hunter Easton (Saline, Michigan/Saline) also delivered three RBIs with a bases-loaded double.

Hope (2-2) hammered out eight extra-base hits, including two doubles from sophomore second baseman Granden Kinnie (Bloomfield Hills, Michigan/Birmingham Seaholm).

Reliever Josiah Long (Newaygo, Michigan/Newaygo) earned the victory, scattering two hits over 2 1/3 scoreless innings. The right-hander struck out three.

The three-game series concludes Saturday, Feb. 28, at noon with a doubleheader.