WILLIAMSBURG, Virginia – UNCW freshman reliever Hunter Hodges ended a William & Mary threat in the bottom of the sixth inning with a bases-loaded strikeout to protect a 4-1 Seahawk lead.

The Hawks would go onto win Sunday’s matchup with the Tribe, 4-1, after dropping the first two games of the series.

Hodges is 5-2 on the season and has only given up one earned run in 15.1 innings of work. The Wilmington native has struck out 19 batters and only allowed three hits dating back to Feb. 20.

The freshman earned his first save of his collegiate career on Sunday after four innings of hitless baseball to close the door on a scorching hot William & Mary offense.

Hodges has given the Hawks even more depth on the backend of its bullpen. With redshirt sophomore Adam Smith handling the duties in the ninth inning, Hodges is a nice option for Head Coach Randy Hood in the mid to late innings.

The freshman was already named Rookie of the Week by the Colonial Athletic Association earlier this month. Don’t be surprised if Hodges earns another weekly honor by the CAA this week after two impressive outings against William & Mary and ECU.

Hodges and the Hawks will host NC State this week, Mar. 23, for a one-game homestand. First pitch is set for 6 p.m.