Bearcats Fall Twice to Lewis & Clark

PORTLAND, Ore. — Willamette University (8-27, 4-17 NWC) faced off against Lewis & Clark College (21-16, 13-8 NWC) in a doubleheader on Sunday at Jerry Gatto Field, concluding the day with two defeats: a narrow 5–4 loss in the first game and a high-scoring 22–14 setback in the second.

In Game 1, the Bearcats initially claimed a commanding lead in the second inning, scoring all four of their runs, capitalizing on three doubles and four walks. Micah Yanos doubled, followed by an RBI single from Matthew Rienhardt. A throwing error allowed Yanos to score, and further errors facilitated runs from Nate Hamburger and Cam Hammer. Despite this rally, the Bearcats' offense stalled in later innings, leaving runners stranded, including Adam Birt's two doubles that failed to spark further scoring.

Lewis & Clark responded with a crucial three-run sixth inning, taking advantage of the Bearcats' defensive lapses. They clinched the win in the ninth inning with a critical RBI single to right field, driving in the winning run and overcoming the tie. Defensively, the Bearcats executed a double play in the first inning, briefly stalling Lewis & Clark's momentum, but their inability to capitalize on late scoring opportunities ultimately sealed their fate.

Nate Hamburger showcased his speed with three stolen bases, contributing significantly to the team's offensive efforts. Adam Birt led the team in hits, collecting three, including two doubles. Jason Smith added to the scoring by recording two hits and one RBI. On the mound, Steven Verespey pitched 4 1/3 innings, allowing one earned run while striking out three batters. Matthew Mason shouldered the loss for the Bearcats, surrendering nine hits and four earned runs over 4 1/3 innings, while striking out two.

In Game 2, Willamette scored 13 of their runs in the first four innings, highlighted by Micah Yanos' solo homer and Liam O'Connor's two-run shot. A six-run fourth inning further cemented their advantage, with Cam Hammer's RBI single and a productive hit by pitch from O'Connor contributing significantly. However, Lewis & Clark mounted a comeback with a staggering 13-run fifth inning, featuring a bases-clearing double by Joaquin Sandoval and a two-RBI triple from Gavin Mangano.

Despite their offensive efforts, including three home runs in the contest, the Bearcats struggled to maintain their lead. Shayde Koga made a significant impact, scoring two runs, collecting three hits, and driving in two RBIs while also stealing two bases. Yanos contributed with three runs, three hits, and two home runs, adding two RBIs. Hammer recorded four hits, including two doubles, and scored two runs with two stolen bases. O'Connor added to the offensive effort with two runs, a home run, and three RBIs.

Luca Penteriani led the Bearcats' pitching efforts, throwing 4 1/3 innings and allowing four earned runs on seven hits with three strikeouts. However, Austin Bilello took the loss after failing to record an out and giving up seven earned runs on five hits and two walks. For Lewis & Clark, Austin Watkins secured the win with a solid performance, pitching three innings and surrendering just one earned run on two hits while striking out one.

The Bearcats now hold an overall record of 8-27 with a 4-17 mark in conference play, while Lewis & Clark improved to a record of 21-16 and stands with a 13-8 tally in the conference.