Bearcats Fall in Extra-Inning Thriller to Puget Sound, 6–5

SALEM, Ore. — The Willamette University Bearcats (8-23, 4-14 NWC) fell to the University of Puget Sound (19-12, 10-8 NWC) in a closely contested matchup, losing 6–5 in 11 innings at Spec Keene Stadium on Sunday. The Bearcats managed to take an early lead with a run in the first inning and added two more in the fourth. However, Puget Sound staged a comeback with two runs in the seventh and ninth innings, and sealed the win with two additional runs in the 11th. Despite their efforts, the Bearcats' pitching staff allowed six earned runs over 11 innings while matching Puget Sound with 10 hits.

Puget Sound seized the critical moment in the 11th inning with Matt Churchill's two-run homer to center field, breaking the tie. A hit-by-pitch and a wild pitch had set the stage for this decisive swing, securing a lead that the Bearcats could not overcome.

Earlier in the game, the Bearcats built a lead through key plays such as Michon Cole's two-run homer in the fourth inning, which put them up by three. In the seventh, Adam Birt delivered a pinch-hit RBI single, extending the lead temporarily. Despite the advantage, Puget Sound tied it in the ninth with a timely RBI single, followed by a run scored on a throw during a pickoff attempt.

The Bearcats' last efforts in the bottom of the 11th saw Jason Smith double to left center and later score on Cole's sacrifice fly. However, the team could not bring home the tying run, leaving Puget Sound's lead intact at the game's conclusion.

Cole led the offensive charge with two hits, including a home run, and drove in three runs while scoring twice. Trevor Sostman contributed two hits and one RBI, adding to the team's scoring. Pitcher Elliot Hsu impressed on the mound by allowing no earned runs over 6 innings, striking out five batters. Smith also made his presence felt with a hit and a scored run, further supporting the team's efforts.

Hsu delivered a strong performance for the Bearcats, pitching 6 scoreless innings while allowing four hits, striking out five, and issuing two walks. Austin Bilello, despite his efforts, was credited with the loss after pitching 2 innings and allowing two earned runs on two hits, which included a home run. For Puget Sound, Zach Robman was key, pitching 3 innings of relief, allowing one earned run on two hits, and securing the win. Cal Johnson started for Puget Sound, recording 6 innings with three earned runs on six hits and three strikeouts, but did not factor into the decision.

The Bearcats have a record of 8-23 and 4-14 in the NWC. Puget Sound holds a record of 19-12 with a 10-8 mark in the NWC.