Baseball scores series win

Conor Philbin takes a swing. Photo: Steve Woltmann

The baseball team (6-12, 2-4) captured the series win against Horizon League opponent Valparaiso (9-9, 1-2) Saturday afternoon, claiming both games of the doubleheader, 5-4 and 6-3.

The Flames rallied for the series victory after losing the opener Friday, 4-3.

The Flames led from wire-to-wire in game two, but needed two runs in the eighth inning of game one to stay in front of the Crusaders. Senior John Coen hit 5-for-9 on the day, including a 4-for-5 effort in the series finale.

“We had a tough week and I am really proud of our guys for sticking with it,” head coach Mike Dee said.  “I thought we came out today and executed better, played better defense and didn’t give them as many opportunities as yesterday.  These two wins were really important for us.”

Freshman Mitchell Schulewitz was credited with the win in game one, while junior Alex Posey picked up the save. Starter Ian Lewandowski lasted 6.1 frames and gave up just three earned runs.

In game two, redshirt sophomore Joe Perricone earned his first win of the season as starter Jack Andersen lasted 4.1 innings and allowed a mere four hits and two runs.

“Our pitchers are becoming more comfortable and more relaxed,” Dee said.  “That’s real easy to say to someone, but it’s completely different to actually go out there and do it.  I thought we handled pressure really well and I think we took a step forward.”

The team hosts a three-game series against Milwaukee this weekend at Les Miller Field.