A season opening rainout did nothing to dampen the efficiency of the Kansas baseball team Saturday at Simmons’ Field in Kona, Hawaii.

The team left last Thursday to begin a six-game stint against Hawaii-Hilo. Heavy rainfall forced the cancellation of game one on Friday. Saturday became opening day, and a successful one at that.

Kodiak Quick, junior right-handed pitcher, threw a three-hit shutout that gave the Jayhawks their first scoreless opponent since the 2003 season. Quick threw 95 total pitches and recorded eight strikeouts in the Jayhawks’ first opening day victory since coach Ritch Price took over in July 2003. Hilo’s starter, senior John Matson, pitched only 2.2 innings and allowed two runs.

“Kodiak Quick was special today. It was really nice for him to come out and set the tone for us,” Price said. “This is a great way to start the season.”

Offensively, the Jayhawks did not act as though they have been burdened by the cold preseason Kansas weather. Sean Richardson, senior catcher, led the way, going 2-3 with two runs scored, two RBI and a home run. Matt Baty, junior left fielder, went 1-2 with two walks and a run scored.