PRINCESS ANNE, Md. — Mercyhurst secured a narrow victory over Maryland Eastern Shore with a final score of 6-5 on Saturday at Hawk Stadium.
The Lakers rallied late with three runs in the ninth inning to clinch the win, overcoming the early lead taken by UMES.
Mercyhurst faced UMES in a closely contested game, emerging victorious with a late comeback. In the second inning, UMES took an early lead after a double to left field, drove in the first run. UMES extended its lead in the third, with two more RBI doubles, culminating in a 4-0 advantage.
The Lakers responded in the fifth inning.
Zach Black scored on a sacrifice fly by
Zachary Kourous, cutting the deficit to 4-1. UMES answered back with a run in their half of the inning, maintaining a 5-1 lead through five.
In the seventh inning,
Logan Koslin scored on a double by
Jayden Walker, narrowing UMES's lead to 5-2. The eighth inning saw
Mike Samarin score on a groundout, bringing Mercyhurst within two runs, 5-3.
The ninth inning was decisive for the Lakers. Koslin scored on a sacrifice fly by
Luke Babcock. Walker followed, scoring on another sacrifice fly by
Mike Samarin. An error allowed Kourous to score, giving Mercyhurst a 6-5 lead.
Nolan Kirsch effectively closed the game, securing the victory for Mercyhurst with three strikeouts in the final half-inning.
Final score: Mercyhurst 6, UMES 5.
Nate Vargo started on the mound for the Green and Blue, pitching 2.2 innings and allowing four earned runs on six hits, with two walks and one strikeout, throwing 50 pitches with 32 strikes. Kirsch took over in relief, delivering a standout performance by pitching 6.1 innings, allowing just one earned run on two hits. Kirsch struck out seven batters and issued three walks, throwing 98 pitches with 61 strikes, earning the win to improve his record to 2-3.
Koslin scored two runs and was hit by a pitch, making valuable contributions at the top of the lineup. Walker drove in a run with a double and drew two walks, showcasing his ability to reach base consistently.
Ranciel Ventura stole two bases and walked twice, providing speed and patience at the plate. Kirsch pitched 6 1/3 innings, allowing just one earned run while striking out seven batters, securing the win for Mercyhurst.
Looking ahead, the Lakers will stay in Princess Anne, Maryland, to face Maryland Eastern Shore on Sunday, April 19 at 12 p.m.
