DALLAS (Interstat) — Liberty erupted for 17 runs on 16 hits to crush Dallas Baptist 17-3 in the Conference USA series opener Friday night at Ellis Davis Field House.

The Flames scored in four straight innings, highlighted by a nine-run fourth. Jaxon Sorenson led the barrage, going 4 for 5 with a home run and three RBIs. Easton Swofford added a two-run homer and four RBIs.

Liberty starter Ben Blair earned the win, allowing two earned runs over five innings with seven strikeouts. Chayton Krauss homered for the Patriots, who managed just seven hits.

Liberty improved to 27-10 overall, while Dallas Baptist fell to 22-16. The teams continue the series Saturday.