Louisiana Tech got a three-run home run from Brent Diaz in the top of the third inning to erase an early deficit and defeat FIU, 14-6, in the first game of a three-game series Friday night at the FIU ballpark.

The Bulldogs (31-14, 12-10 Conference USA) were trailing 2-0 in the third before scoring three on the home run off Panthers starter Nick MacDonald.

FIU (26-22, 10-12) took a 2-0 lead in the second inning after Nick Day led off the inning with a solo home run off LA Tech starter Kyle Griffen. Adam Sevario walked and stole second base before scoring on an RBI single by Irving Lopez.

MacDonald (6-2) went four innings, allowed five hits and five runs. Griffen (5-1) picked up the win after pitching five innings and allowing three runs.

Day hit another solo home run in the fourth as part of a three-hit night for the senior designated hitter.

JC Escarra added a two-run home run in the ninth. It was the 13^th of the season for Escarra.

The Panthers and Bulldogs play the middle game of the series Saturday at 7 p.m.