Narrow Loss to Whitman by Bearcats

WALLA WALLA, Wash. — Willamette University (7-20, 4-11) fell to Whitman College (10-19-1, 5-10) in a tightly contested game with a final score of 11-10 on Sunday at Borleske Stadium. The Bearcats battled back from an early deficit, scoring three runs in the fifth inning and two in the ninth, but Whitman's early five-run first inning and three-run sixth proved decisive. Both teams displayed patience at the plate, with Willamette drawing 11 walks and Whitman hitting two home runs.

Willamette's playing was highlighted by a productive fifth inning. Finn Hoover's single to left field drove in two runs, with an additional run scoring on a defensive miscue, narrowing the deficit. However, Whitman's decisive moment came in the sixth inning when Halen Otte blasted a three-run home run to left field, expanding its lead and applying pressure on the Bearcats. This offensive surge proved critical as Willamette attempted to close the gap in the subsequent innings.

Olen Nofziger contributed a solo home run in the seventh, adding to Willamette's efforts. Matthew Rienhardt kept the momentum alive with a standout performance, going 4-for-5 and stealing two bases, underscoring his impact on both sides of the game. In the final inning, the Bearcats staged a late rally, putting two runs on the board with RBI hits from Micah Yanos and Rienhardt. However, Whitman's defense held firm, leaving the tying run stranded to seal the narrow victory.

Rienhardt led Willamette with four hits, two runs, and two stolen bases. Nofziger contributed three runs and a home run to the team's effort. Carter Stoltz drove in three RBIs while adding a hit to his performance. Finn Hoover added three hits and one RBI, showcasing his ability at the plate.

Elliot Hsu of Willamette recorded a loss after pitching 2 1/3 innings, allowing eight hits and five earned runs while striking out two. Brandon Goodell pitched the most innings for the Bearcats, delivering 4 2/3 innings with three strikeouts, though he allowed four earned runs on five hits.

The Bearcats compete next in home competition against George Fox University at 6pm on April 15th.