Spartan Baseball Goes 3-1 Over The Weekend

Jaxon Brooks

Game 1: Southwestern vs Highland. The Spartan baseball team clinched an exhilarating victory against the Highland Community College in Topeka, Kansas. The game showcased remarkable performances from both teams, culminating in a nail-biting finish with Southwestern scoring four runs in the eighth to emerge victorious with a score of 15-14.

In a game filled with standout plays, the Spartans displayed exceptional prowess both offensively and defensively. This high-scoring weekend was impacted by 40 mph winds blowing directly out during both days. Leading the charge for Southwestern was Chris Lugo, whose stellar performance at shortstop included a crucial home run and two RBIs. Zade Stark also shone brightly, contributing significantly with two hits and three walks, adding depth to the Spartans' offensive lineup.

Jaxon Brooks showcased his hitting abilities with three hits, while Drew Miller's two RBIs further solidified Southwestern's lead. Eli Eldred, Braydan Resch, and Carlos Allen also made notable contributions to the team's impressive offensive display.

Defensively, the Spartans exhibited resilience and determination, holding off a strong offensive push from Highland Community College. Despite facing tough opposition, pitcher Pedro Sierra demonstrated composure and skill on the mound, ultimately securing the win for Southwestern.

With this win, the Southwestern Spartans continue to demonstrate their competitive edge and determination to excel in every game they play. As they set their sights on future matchups, the team remains focused on furthering their success and making their mark in collegiate baseball.

Game 2: Southwestern vs Pratt. The Southwestern Spartans faced a tough matchup against Pratt Community College, ultimately falling short with a final score of 11-2. Both Spartan runs occurred in the seventh inning.

Pratt Community College surged ahead early in the game 5-0 after the first inning. Southwestern struggled to contain Pratt's lineup, as they showcased their hitting prowess with sixteen total hits throughout this game to Southwestern's one.

Offensively, the Spartans faced a formidable challenge against Pratt's pitching staff. Stark and Brooks managed to get on base, with Stark scoring one of the team's two runs. Miller and Eldred contributed RBIs for Southwestern, showcasing their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

Pitchers Eldred, Stark, Resch, and Kole Miller struggled with Pratt's offense and failed to keep the Spartans in contention throughout the game, giving up seven earned runs.

Although the outcome was not in their favor, the Southwestern Spartans remain focused headed into day two with one more game against each opponent.

Game 3: Southwestern vs Pratt. In a much tighter matchup at Topeka, the Southwestern Spartans emerged victorious against Pratt Community College with a final score of 10-8. The Spartans were able to correct their offensive woes overnight as this game showcased a flurry of offensive fireworks from both teams, providing spectators with an exciting display of baseball prowess.

Pratt Community College took an early lead, putting up a strong offensive performance in the first inning. However, the Spartans quickly responded with a powerful offensive surge of their own, rallying to score four runs in the bottom of the third inning.

Brysen Vernon led the charge for the Spartans, delivering an outstanding performance at the plate with four hits, including two doubles. Stark and Brooks also made significant contributions, with Stark's triple and three hits, and Brooks' home run and four RBIs.

Eldred and Miller added to Southwestern's offensive onslaught, each contributing with extra-base hits and RBIs. Jacob Angell and Shammy-Thayne Maximiliana rounded out the scoring efforts for the Spartans, showcasing their ability to drive in runs in crucial moments.

Despite facing a relentless offensive onslaught from Pratt, the Spartans' pitching staff demonstrated composure and resilience on the mound. Pitcher Isaiah Faudoa started strong, setting the tone for the game before handing over the reins to the bullpen, which held off Pratt's offense to secure the victory.

Game 4: Southwestern vs Highland. In a dramatic game four matchup in Topeka, the Southwestern Spartans secured a hard-fought victory against Highland Community College with a final score of 10-9. The game was a testament to the resilience and determination of both teams, providing fans with a nail-biting contest from start to finish.

Highland Community College came out swinging early, building a solid lead with a strong offensive performance in the first three innings. However, the Spartans refused to back down, mounting a comeback with a flurry of runs to take control of the game.

Vernon led the offensive charge for the Spartans, delivering a clutch RBI hit to ignite the team's rally. Brooks also made a significant impact at the plate, driving in two runs to help propel Southwestern's comeback effort.

Miller showcased his power with a towering home run, while Jake Shedarowich came up big with a timely hit, driving in two crucial runs to give the Spartans the lead. Nathan Brown also contributed to the offensive outburst, driving in two runs to extend Southwestern's advantage.

On the mound, Barrett Lodge delivered a gutsy performance for the Spartans, battling through six tough innings to earn the win. Despite facing a relentless Highland lineup, Lodge remained composed under pressure, striking out seven batters to keep the Spartans in the game.

In the late innings, the Spartans' bullpen held strong, with Noah Johnson and Jake DeJoode combining to only give up two runs in the seventh to the Highland offense and secure the victory.

The Spartans needed a successful outing and the chance to win in tightly-contested match-ups as conference play begins. The Spartans will face Indian Hills and Iowa Lakes this weekend in Centerville, IA.