Baseball snags 3 game from Pacific
Doubles by Stoltz, Birt, O'Connor, and Koga lead Bearcats to 8-6 win.
FOREST GROVE, Ore. — Willamette University (2-3, 1-2) secured an 8-6 victory over Pacific University (4-8, 2-1) on Sunday at Chuck Bafaro Stadium. The Bearcats' offense was highlighted by a decisive three-run seventh inning, which proved crucial in maintaining its lead. Despite Pacific narrowing the gap with late runs in the eighth and ninth innings, Willamette's pitching staff held firm to clinch the win.
Pacific mounted a late comeback attempt in the ninth inning, narrowing the gap with a double from A. Laureano, which drove in a run to make it a two-run contest. However, the Bearcats' E. Hsu managed to close out the inning, securing the victory.
Earlier, Willamette established a commanding lead with a pivotal three-run third inning. A. Birt's RBI single and L. O'Connor's run-scoring double contributed to the offensive surge. S. Koga's fielder's choice added another run, capitalizing on the pressure. In the seventh, Koga delivered a crucial two-RBI double after C. Stoltz and O. Nofziger reached base, extending the lead.
Despite Pacific's attempts to rally, miscues and stranded runners hindered its comeback efforts. The Bearcats' ability to capitalize on free bases and execute timely hits under pressure moments proved decisive in maintaining the lead.
S. Koga led the Bearcats with four RBIs, including a double. C. Stoltz contributed two runs and two hits, one of which was a double. A. Birt recorded two runs and an RBI, doubling once in his at-bats. N. Schikore pitched seven innings, striking out three and allowing two earned runs.
N. Schikore led the Bearcats' pitching with a solid performance, throwing 7 innings while allowing 5 hits, 3 runs, and striking out 3 batters. E. Hsu contributed 2 innings of relief, yielding 5 hits and 3 runs with 1 walk. For Pacific, M. Palmateer was notable in relief, pitching 4 2/3 innings, conceding 5 hits, 5 runs, and striking out 4, alongside 2 walks. I. Hirsh made a brief appearance, recording only 1 out while allowing 2 hits, 1 run, and 2 walks.
The Bearcats have a record of 2-3 and are 1-2 in the conference. Pacific has a record of 4-8 and is 2-1 in the conference.