The Owls began their home stand Friday night by defeating Rutgers 5-2 in Boca. FAU started off the game with a display of power, as right fielder Corey Keller sent a three-run home run over the left field wall in the first inning. This marks Keller’s second home run in as many games, adding extra power to the team’s offense. Keller hit a grand slam on Wednesday night against Boston College.

The Owls would add two more runs in a rally during the fourth inning. Rutgers would keep the game close as they loaded the bases in the eighth inning. However, FAU’s bullpen would pull through, as reliever R.J. Alvarez struck out two consecutive Scarlett Knights to retire the side.

Owls starting pitcher Ryan Garton threw a gem, giving up one run in seven innings for the win. FAU’s victory tonight brings Garton’s starting record this season to 3-1 with a 2.45 ERA. The loss went to Rutgers starting pitcher Ryan Fasano as he gave up five earned runs in eight innings on six hits, including a three run home run to Keller.

FAU plays the second game of the series against Rutgers tomorrow at 4 p.m. in Boca.