Lions split Saturday DH versus Tusculum
Mars Hill shuts out Pioneers in game two, 3-0.
MARS HILL, N.C. - The Mars Hill baseball team (9-22, 4-11 SAC) split their Saturday doubleheader versus Tusculum (10-19, 5-10 SAC), dropping game one by a score of 9-0, but taking game two by a score of 3-0.
GAME ONE: TU 9, MHU 0
The Pioneers used a five-run ninth inning to secure their second shutout of the weekend, and claiming the series.
The Lions kept things close for most of the game, trailing just 4–0 heading into the final frame. Senior Dustin Dunlap gave Mars Hill a solid start on the mound, working through five innings while allowing just three hits and three runs, keeping the Lions within striking distance.
At the plate, Walker Fox, Jackson Jones, Max LaLime, and Terick Bumgarner each recorded hits for the Lions. Bumgarner and Jackson Jones also showed aggression on the bases, each swiping a bag to give Mars Hill opportunities to manufacture runs. While the Lions reached base consistently, including four walks and four stolen bases, Tusculum's pitching staff was able to work out of jams and prevent Mars Hill from breaking through.
Defensively, the Lions turned in solid plays in the field, highlighted by Elec Yount and Blake Russell combining for multiple assists in the middle infield. Catcher Dawson Anderson also contributed with four assists and a solid presence behind the plate.
Tusculum's win was powered by a strong outing from starter Philip Miller, who went seven innings with eight strikeouts and no runs allowed. The Pioneers added insurance runs late, with contributions from Omar Carreras (2-for-4, RBI), Max Schmarder (RBI double), and Landon Dockery (triple, RBI).
GAME TWO: MHU 3, TU 0
Mars Hill shut out Tusculum 3-0 in a dominant performance in game three of the series.
The Lions were led by starting pitcher Brennan Williams, who tossed a complete game shutout, allowing just four hits and one walk while striking out eight over seven innings. He faced only 25 batters and improved to 4-3 on the season with the win.
Offensively, Mars Hill struck early and steadily, scoring in the second, third, and sixth innings. Walker Fox opened the scoring with a solo home run, followed by another solo shot from Chapel Matson an inning later. Max LaLime added an RBI groundout in the sixth to cap off the Lions' scoring. Jackson Jones and Blake Russell each had two-hit games to help pace the offense.
Mars Hill returns to the diamon on Tuesday, March 25 when they host Lander in non-conference play. First pitch at Henderson Field is set for 2 p.m.
