Bearcats Swept by Pacific Lutheran

TACOMA, Wash. — Willamette University (9-20, 6-11) faced Pacific Lutheran University (22-7, 14-3) in a doubleheader on Saturday, suffering losses in both games with final scores of 10–1 and 6–2.

In the first game, the Bearcats managed three hits, including two doubles, but could only score once in the second inning. Pacific Lutheran capitalized early with four runs in the first inning and added five more in the third, securing the victory in a shortened five-inning game. The opposition seized the lead in the first, leveraging a series of wild pitches and a timely RBI single to set the tone, while the Bearcats struggled to regain momentum. Lizzie Brasher took over pitching duties in the third but faced challenges, allowing a bases-clearing home run that widened the gap.

Emma Elliott's efforts in the second inning provided a spark for Willamette. Her double set up Desirae Hatfield's RBI double, plating their lone run. Despite Elliott's later stolen base and persistence in reaching base, the Bearcats could not break through Pacific Lutheran's defense further. Key opportunities in the third, such as Jenna Hopkins' single, were neutralized by steady play from the opposition, leaving runners stranded.

Emma Elliott recorded a strong performance, scoring one run and collecting a double, while also earning a walk and stealing a base. Desirae Hatfield contributed with an RBI and a double. On the mound, Abigail Loomis pitched 2 innings, striking out two batters despite allowing five earned runs. Lizzie Brasher also took the mound for the Bearcats, pitching 2 innings, during which she surrendered five earned runs, including a home run. For Pacific Lutheran, Paige Wilson delivered a complete game performance, conceding just one earned run and earning her 13th win.

In the second game, Willamette managed to score two runs in the fourth inning, highlighted by two doubles, but Pacific Lutheran's five home runs throughout the game secured its victory. The opposition took control with three runs in the fourth inning, maintaining their lead for the remainder of the contest. In that crucial fourth inning, Pacific Lutheran secured its decisive lead with a solo homer by Paityn Mackin, followed by a two-run shot from Paola Garcia, extending the advantage to 6–2.

The Bearcats' offensive highlight came in the same inning when Emma Elliott's walk set the stage for Desirae Hatfield's double, moving Elliott to third. Maya Filger then delivered a two-run single, driving in both Elliott and Hatfield. Despite this momentum, the Bearcats' efforts were stifled, with runners left on base in the seventh inning after a single by Mia Atkins and a fielder's choice from Jenna Hopkins. Earlier, in the third inning, the Bearcats had an opportunity to swing momentum with Reese Wiseman reaching third base after a hit-by-pitch and two productive outs, but the team couldn't capitalize.

Emma Elliott contributed significantly with a double, a hit, and a run scored. Desirae Hatfield also added a double and a run. Maya Filger drove in two runs but allowed six earned runs over 3 1/3 innings. Maddy Tuning showcased her pitching abilities by striking out four batters across 2 2/3 innings, allowing three hits and one walk. For Pacific Lutheran, Maiya Anderson delivered a complete game, conceding six hits and two earned runs while striking out two, maintaining control throughout the game.

The Bearcats conclude the day with a record of 9-20 and are now 6-11 in their conference, while Pacific Lutheran improves to 22-7 and 14-3 in conference play.