SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Connor Niemiec struck out eight and allowed two hits Wednesday to lead the Pope Francis baseball team to a 5-0 win over Taconic.

 

Christian Salzarulo and Evan Blake each had a single for the Thunder.

 

Blake also threw 1-? innings in relief of starter Damon Pause, who struck out seven and walked one.

 

Taconic (3-1) goes to Agawam next Wednesday.