ERIE, Pa. — Mercyhurst fell to Kent State 14–2 on Tuesday, as Kent State capitalized on offensive opportunities to secure a decisive win. The Lakers managed five hits, including a home run, but could not keep pace with Kent State's 12 hits and 10 RBIs.
Kent State took an early lead in the first inning with a RBI single and a stolen base play that allowed a runner to score, making it 2–0. The Lakers went scoreless in its half of the inning, leaving the score at 2–0 Kent State after one inning.
In the second inning, the Lakers'
Luke Babcock doubled to right field and later scored on a single by
Zac Evenson, cutting Kent State's lead to 2–1.
Kent State extended its lead in the third inning with a home run by followed by two more runs, bringing the score to 5–1. Mercyhurst was unable to score in its half, ending the inning still trailing 5–1.
In the fourth inning,
Zach Black of Mercyhurst responded with a solo home run. Despite this effort, Kent State scored two more runs, including one on a wild pitch, to take a 7–2 lead.
Kent State added three more runs in the fifth inning, with an error contributing to the scoring. Mercyhurst could not score, and the inning closed with Kent State leading 10–2.
The sixth inning saw Kent State further its lead with four additional runs, aided by a Mercyhurst error. The Lakers were unable to reduce the deficit, leaving the score 14–2 through six innings.
The game concluded with no further scoring in the last two innings, resulting in a 14–2 victory for Kent State over the Lakers.
Ryan Okopal pitched two innings, allowing three hits and two earned runs, while striking out one and issuing two walks.
Anthony Krause, in relief, faced a challenging inning, conceding three runs on two hits, including a home run, along with two walks.
Heath Betza managed two innings but struggled with control, giving up four earned runs on three hits and allowing two walks.
Cody Smith provided a solid effort with two strikeouts in one inning, despite allowing four hits and one earned run.
Carson Phillips concluded the game with one inning pitched and issued two walks, while also throwing a wild pitch.
Zach Black made a significant impact by hitting a home run, driving in one run, and scoring another while also drawing a walk.
Luke Babcock contributed with a double, scoring once and recording a hit in his only at-bat.
Zac Evenson added to the offense by getting a hit and an RBI, also drawing a walk.
Riley Ames demonstrated his speed on the bases with two walks and one stolen base.
The Lakers have a record of 10–20 and 9–9 in the NEC. Kent State has a record of 26–9 and 13–5 in the MAC.
In their next game, Mercyhurst will travel to Princess Anne, Maryland, to face Maryland Eastern Shore at 3 p.m. Friday, April 17.
