IRVINE, CA – Menlo Baseball kicked off PacWest Conference play with a doubleheader against the Concordia University Irvine Golden Eagles on Friday. The Oaks looked to establish early momentum but faced a tough challenge on the road at Golden Eagles Field. They will have a quick turnaround as they look towards another doubleheader on Saturday.
Menlo's Statistical Leaders and Key Moments
Game 1: Menlo 2 - 12 CUI
Menlo got on the board in the second inning when Matt Morrison brought home a run, giving the Oaks an early lead. Concordia responded with consistent offensive pressure, capitalizing on a few defensive miscues by Menlo. Samuel Brewer's double in the fifth helped keep the game within reach as the Oaks trailed by only one run.
However, a tough bottom of the sixth inning turned the tide against Menlo. The Golden Eagles erupted for seven runs, breaking the game open. Despite a strong effort from starter Trey Silva, who limited the damage early, the Oaks couldn't recover from the late offensive surge by Concordia. Menlo ultimately fell 2-12 in the opener.
Game 2: Menlo 0 - 6 CUI
The second game of the doubleheader featured strong pitching on both sides. Menlo's Chase Barsotti battled through 1.1 innings but ran into early trouble, allowing three runs in the second inning. The Oaks' offense struggled to generate momentum, recording only one hit - courtesy of Lakin Anderson.
Menlo's bullpen worked to keep the game within reach, with Donovan Kerr and Matthew Verdugo combining for nearly four innings of solid relief. However, Concordia tacked on insurance runs in the fifth and sixth innings, securing a 6-0 shutout victory. Menlo's offense couldn't break through against the Golden Eagles' pitching staff, concluding a tough day at the plate.
Up Next….
The Oaks will look to bounce back tomorrow morning on Saturday, February 22nd for another doubleheader against the Golden Eagles starting at 1pm.
