SAINT LEO, Fla.- Conference play did not open the way the Lions' had hoped as they dropped all three games this weekend to Nova Southeastern including the doubleheader today seeing scores of 15-11 and 4-2.

The first game today was a display of offensive power from the two Sunshine State Conference juggernauts as they combined for 26 runs. Saint Leo hit a season high seven doubles in the game. Senior utility man Nick Perez went 3-5 with a walk in his first start since February 10 against Florida Southern. Perez also scored three runs and notched an RBI in his return. Sophomore Dylan Harris added a 4-6 effort scoring three runs of his own. Junior Cole Stancil had two hits, both doubles, to tally three RBI for the game.

Despite the Lions' bats waking up for game two of the series, Nova Southeastern was able to match and better Saint Leo's efforts. The green and gold pitching staff was unable to solve the top of the Sharks' lineup as the top four batters combined for 13 of the teams 17 hits in the game.

Game two of the day, three of the series, proved to be a different tale as each team only amassed six hits each and only six runs combined. Senior Jordan Taylor received the starting nod for the Lions. The Palm Coast, Florida native went 6.1 innings giving up five hits, four walks, and four runs (all earned). Taylor pounded the strike zone and was able to record 10 k's on the day.  It was a good performance from the lefty, but a patient Sharks lineup was able to force his pitch count to raise quickly.

Picking up the win in game two was Nova pitcher Ryan Castellanos who went 8.0 innings giving up six hits and both Lions' runs.  It is Castellanos's fifth win as he moves to 5-1 on the year. Jordan Taylor now sports a 2-1 record after today's loss.

Saint Leo baseball will have a couple days of rest before heading to Clearwater for a pair of midweek neutral site games against visiting Slippery Rock University on Tuesday, March 10 at 7:00 p.m. and Ohio Valley University on Wednesday, March 11 at 6:00 p.m.

For more information on the Saint Leo baseball program, visit SaintLeoLions.com.  Fans can also stay up-to-date on the latest Lions news by following Saint Leo Athletics on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.