Box Score ERIE, Pa. — Mercyhurst secured a decisive 12-2 victory over the New Haven on Friday, capitalizing on 16 walks and five hit batters. The Lakers' offense was highlighted by scoring four runs in the first inning and closing with a five-run eighth inning.

The Lakers took an early lead in the first inning with a series of strategic plays. Logan Koslin was hit by a pitch, then Jayden Walker walked, advancing Koslin to second. Zachary Kourous was also hit by a pitch, loading the bases. Mike Samarin's fielder's choice resulted in Koslin being out at home, but the bases remained loaded. Dana Williams walked, bringing Walker home for the first run. Zach Black followed with a two-RBI single to center, scoring Kourous and Samarin. Williams then stole third and scored, giving the Lakers a 4-0 lead after the first inning.

In the fifth inning, New Haven responded with two runs, closing the gap to 4-2 in favor of the Lakers.

The Lakers extended their lead in the sixth inning. Derrick Holmes Jr. walked, followed by Koslin reaching on a fielder's choice. Koslin then stole second and scored on Walker's single. After a pitching change for New Haven, the bases were loaded, and Ranciel Ventura walked, forcing in a run. Williams was hit by a pitch, bringing in another run. Mercyhurst led 7-2 after six innings.

The eighth inning saw the Lakers decisively increase their lead. Zachary Kourous was hit by a pitch and advanced to third on two wild pitches. Mike Samarin walked and stole second, and Ventura walked to load the bases. Williams walked, scoring Kourous. Black's sacrifice fly brought Samarin home. A wild pitch allowed Ventura to score, and another wild pitch brought Williams home. Walker's RBI single scored John Chalus, capping the scoring. The Lakers secured a 12-2 victory.

Nate Vargo delivered a commanding performance on the mound, pitching a complete game with eight innings of work. He allowed just five hits and two earned runs while facing 30 batters, demonstrating efficiency with 95 pitches, 61 of which were strikes. Vargo's control was evident as he issued only one walk and maintained a WHIP of 0.75, effectively neutralizing New Haven's offense.

Jayden Walker led the offensive effort with two hits, two runs, and two RBIs, contributing significantly to the team's scoring. Zachary Kourous displayed speed and discipline, scoring three runs, recording a hit, and stealing two bases. Ranciel Ventura excelled in the field, collecting six assists and adding two stolen bases to his performance.