Cougars Overtake Trailblazers with Sweep

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio. — The Mount Vernon Nazarene University baseball team (5-0) capped off its fall series games on Saturday, October 12 with a sweep over the Ohio Christian University Trailblazers (0-2).

Game 1 Summary:

In the first inning, the Trailblazers took the lead by scoring one run, but the Cougars didn't stay quiet, scoring three in response to reclaim the lead. Brady Lester singled to right field, scoring Rider Minnick and Grant Moore, then Connor Estep batted in sophomore Kaid Carpenter, making the score 3-1.

In the bottom of the fifth inning, the Cougars took off and didn't look back, scoring four more runs. This was led by Carpenter's long ball to left field, making the score 6-4.

The bats continued to roll in the bottom of the sixth inning with Estep hitting a double and Ryan Willoughby reaching the bag on a fielder's choice, which scored Zackary Hoop to make the final score 13-4.

Game 2 Summary:

The Cougars turned in a shutout in the backend of the doubleheader, with Jarin Bertke taking the win on the mound. Bertke had six strikeouts and only allowed two hits in five innings pitched.

MVNU scored in the first, which set the tone for the rest of the game. MVNU scored eight runs off seven hits and walked five times in the win. Grant Wheeler and Lester each had two RBI's. Brennan Nichols, Willoughby, and Estep each batted in a run also.

What's Next:

This ends the fall ball slate for the Cougars, but the team will start its spring season in February in Lake Wales, Florida against the Bethel University Pilots.

Mount Vernon Nazarene University is a private, four-year, intentionally Christian teaching university for traditional age students, graduate students, and working adults. With a 327-acre main campus in Mount Vernon, Ohio, MVNU emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service to community and church. MVNU offers an affordable education both in-seat and online to nearly 2,000 students from 25 states and 11 foreign countries.