CONWAY, S.C. – No.16 Coastal Carolina used a seven-run third inning to rally past James Madison 16-6 in seven innings to complete a Sun Belt Conference series sweep on Sunday at Springs Brooks Stadium.

Trailing early, the Chanticleers broke the game open in the third inning, sending 11 batters to the plate and scoring seven runs. Dean Mihos ignited the rally with a two-run double before later scoring on a wild pitch and a throwing error by JMU catcher Ryan Gocio.

Later in the inning, Rex Watson delivered the big swing, launching a three-run home run to give Coastal the lead. Watson continued his strong weekend at the plate, adding a second home run in the fourth inning to extend the Chanticleers' advantage. The junior finished with three hits and seven RBI. For the series, Watson smacked three home runs with nine RBi.

Mihos led the offense with three hits, including two doubles, while Ty Barrango added three hits of his own. Blake Barthol also recorded a multi-hit performance for the Chanticleers.

On the mound, Scott Doran earned the win, tossing four scoreless innings allowing no hits and striking out six.

With the victory, Coastal Carolina improves to 16-7 overall and 6-0 in Sun Belt Conference play. Dating back to last season, the Chanticleers have now won 28 consecutive Sun Belt Conference games. It also marks the first time in program history that Coastal won a three-game conference series all by run-rule.  

Coastal Carolina will return to action on Tuesday night as it travels to face No.19 Clemson at 7.