The 2008 baseball season started off with a bang this year – only the wrong team created the fireworks. The Quakers suffered a disappointing 23-3 loss in the season opener with cross-town rival Greensboro College. While the Quakers put up a good effort, they were no match for the great pitching and even better hitting from Greensboro College.

Things weren’t all bad, however. Third baseman Brad Buchman homered to left-center in the sixth inning, marking the Quakers first home run of the season.

“It’s a shame that they lost,” said senior Jenn St. Mary, “But I still had a really good time.”

One of the better aspects of the game was simply the support from the large crowd. Parents, alumni, and locals, in addition to Guilford students, were on hand to watch the game in the exceptionally nice weather.

“It was such great weather for opening day,” said senior Brennan Kahl. “It was nice to be able to sit out and watch a ballgame for a while in between my classes.”

The Quakers are counting on this type of support all season. Their next home game is on Saturday, Feb. 16, a double-header against Southern Virginia University. The action starts at noon.

While opening day was obviously rough on the team, they were unfazed and hit the road this past weekend ready to win. The Quakers thoroughly beat Atlanta Christian College 7-3, proving the capabilities of the Quaker pitching staff.

The Quakers barely lost a seismic battle against Piedmont College 9-8 in the 10th inning. Catcher Jason Flud had a big day in the batter’s box, going 2-for-5 and batting in two runs, while shortstop Josh Sumler went an impressive 3-for-6.

Coming off a successful road trip, the team is ready to return home to McBane Field and play for a big Guilford crowd next time around.

The Quakers have a strong returning squad this year, according to the Guilford baseball Web site. Returning 18 letter-winners from last season should prove to be a big deal both defensively and offensively.

In addition to the veterans, the Guilford squad has a large contingent of players in their first or second year at Guilford, which leaves Coach Nick Black with room to focus on the future as well.

With the weather quickly turning from the abrasive cold to the warm and sunny days of spring, there’s really no better time to come out and cheer on a truly entertaining Quaker baseball team.