ERIE, Pa. — Mercyhurst University edged out Delaware State with a 9-8 victory on Sunday. The Lakers' offense was bolstered by two home runs, contributing to a total of nine runs on six hits.
Mercyhurst and Delaware State engaged in a tight contest. Delaware State took an early lead with four runs in the first inning, highlighted by a three-run homer. The Lakers responded with two runs in the bottom half as
Mike Samarin's single to center field brought home
Zachary Kourous and
Jayden Walker. Delaware State led 4-2 after the first inning.
In the second inning, Mercyhurst's offense came alive.
Riley Ames singled to center field, driving in
Derrick Holmes Jr. and
Dana Williams. Walker reached first on an error, allowing Ames to score an unearned run, giving Mercyhurst a 5-4 lead through two innings.
Mercyhurst extended its lead in the fourth inning when Walker hit a three-run homer, scoring Ames and Williams, to make it 8-4.
In the fifth inning, Delaware State added a run scored on a fielder's choice. The Lakers maintained an 8-5 advantage after five innings.
Williams hit a solo home run in the eighth inning, extending Mercyhurst's lead to 9-5.
Delaware State mounted a comeback attempt in the ninth inning.They hit a double, followed by a two-run double. However, the Green and Blue held on for the 9-8 victory.
Andrew Malec started the game and pitched four innings, allowing three earned runs on three hits, including a home run, while striking out six batters and walking three.
Noah Ehlers came in relief for two innings, giving up one earned run on two hits and issuing three walks, with no strikeouts.
Cody Smith also contributed with one inning of scoreless pitching, despite walking three batters, and managing two groundouts.
Mitch Harder closed out the game, pitching two innings, allowing three earned runs on three hits, including a home run, and recording one strikeout.
Walker recorded four RBIs and hit a home run, contributing significantly to the scoring effort. Ames added two runs and two RBIs, and successfully stole three bases. Williams showcased his speed on the bases, scoring three runs and stealing three bases while also hitting a home run. Kourous excelled with four stolen bases, showcasing his agility and ability to advance.
In their next game, the Lakers will take the field at 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 17, when they face Akron in Akron, Ohio.