GREENVILLE, N.C. (Interstat) — Davin Whitaker drove in five runs, including a two-run homer, as East Carolina powered past Charlotte 12-2 on Thursday at Clark–LeClair Stadium.

The Pirates (18-12, 1-0 American Athletic) erupted for six runs in the second inning, highlighted by Whitaker’s three-run triple. He finished 2 for 4. Walker Barron added a two-run homer for East Carolina, which tallied nine hits.

Alec DeMartino hit a solo home run in the second for the 49ers (18-11, 0-1), who managed just five hits. Charlotte pitchers Adam Baker, Chayse Oxborrow and Walker Morgan combined for 4 1/3 scoreless innings of relief.

East Carolina starter Luke Payne earned the win, allowing two runs over four innings. The teams continue their series Friday.