Bearcats drop two in Walla Walla

WALLA WALLA, Wash. — Willamette University (7-19, 4-10) faced a challenging doubleheader against Whitman College (9-19-1, 4-10) at Borleske Stadium, suffering two close losses: 10–9 in the first game and 7–4 in the second.

In a dramatic opener, Willamette fell to Whitman in extra innings after leading for much of the game. The Bearcats recorded 18 hits and three doubles, but Whitman's decisive four-run 11th inning clinched the victory. A standout sixth inning saw Willamette score three runs, highlighted by Olen Nofziger's single and Cam Hammer's sacrifice bunt. Matthew Rienhardt's two-RBI single in the seventh temporarily put Willamette ahead. Nate Hamburger's four-hit performance and Michon Cole's two RBIs kept the pressure on Whitman throughout the game.

Despite a late surge in the 11th, including Braden Puapong's single and Rienhardt's RBI double, Willamette's defense faltered, allowing Whitman to score the tying and winning runs due to two costly errors. Matthew Rienhardt had an impressive performance with five hits, three doubles, and three RBIs, while Nate Schikore pitched seven innings, striking out four batters. Matthew Mason was charged with the loss after pitching 3 1/3 innings.

In the second game, Willamette again found itself in a strong position, holding a narrow lead through seven innings. However, a five-run rally in the ninth by Whitman turned the tide, culminating in a game-ending grand slam from Nate Petz. Willamette managed six hits and two doubles, with Olen Nofziger leading the team with two runs scored and two hits, including a double and an RBI. Cam Hammer contributed crucial offense with two RBIs.

Luca Penteriani delivered a solid outing, pitching five innings without allowing an earned run, while the relief efforts faltered in the ninth. Finn Hoover allowed two runs over one inning, and Austin Bilello, who took the loss, gave up five runs, including a home run, in just 1/3 inning. For Whitman, Oliver Brown pitched 5 2/3 innings, and Jack Finn earned the win with 3 1/3 innings of relief.

Overall, the Bearcats are now 7-19 and 4-10 in the conference, while Whitman holds a record of 9-19-1 and 4-10 in the conference.