The Crusaders began their conference schedule by splitting a double-header with Muskingum University at Clowson Field last Saturday.
The first game of the day was fought hard by the Crusaders, who fell 11-7 in a game that was tied 2-2 through the 5th inning. Capital’s offensive effort was lead by sophomore Jake Foley, who had three hits and two RBIs in the game. Sophomore Justin Ennis also had a strong performance, going 2-4 with two runs and an RBI. The Crusaders’ largest scoring inning at the plate was the 9th, when first year Alex Smith singled and advanced to second on a throwing error. Foley then singled in Smith for his second RBI of the game and later Foley scored on a single by senior Matt Carnahan.
Sophomore pitcher Shane Wellman took the loss in the game for the Crusaders.
The start of the second game saw the Crusaders bounce back from a 4-0 deficit to take a 5-4 lead in the second inning. Capital maintained the lead through the rest of the game, tacking on another seven runs to earn victory with a 12-7 score. Capital was led on offense by the three RBI performances of sophomores Brett Colburn and Logan Bastin. They were not alone, however, as seven Crusader hitters all notched an RBI in the game. Carnahan and Smith each scored three runs.
Sophomore Jacob Sheaf pitched five innings yielding just two runs on five hits for his second win of the season. Junior pitcher Tyler Spears threw the last four innings to secure Sheaf’s victory.
The Crusaders play next at Otterbein Saturday in another conference double-header. Their next home game at Clowson field is scheduled for Sunday against Denison University.
