A train passing just beyond Olsen Field’s outfield fence tooted the first few strains of the “Aggie War Hymn” in the middle of a Le Moyne defensive play early on Friday night.
While the crowd roared its approval, the Dolphins finished off the play, undaunted by Texas A&M’s apparent home-track advantage in the opening round of the NCAA tournament.
Dealing with hard-throwing Aggies left-hander David Newmann was another matter, however. Top-seeded A&M defeated fourth-seeded Le Moyne 7-2 before 5,267 fans in Olsen Field, after Newmann allowed a lone run over seven innings while striking out nine.
“He doesn’t fool around out there,” said Le Moyne shortstop Andy Parrino, who’s hitting .412. “He comes right at you and makes you put the ball in play.”
The Aggies and ace Kyle Nicholson will face Louisiana-Lafayette, which defeated Ohio State 5-4 earlier Friday, at 7 tonight in the winners bracket. Le Moyne will play the Buckeyes at 1 p.m. today in an elimination game.
