SAN DIEGO, CA – Menlo Baseball took on the high-powered offense of Point Loma Nazarene University in a challenging doubleheader on Friday. The Sea Lions, who lead the PacWest Conference, proved to be a formidable opponent as the Oaks fought hard but ultimately dropped both games.
Menlo Statistical Leaders
Jaden Fulsher – 2-for-3, 2 RBIs, 2 runs, 1 home run (Game 1)
Justin Flannery – 2-for-4, 1 run scored (Game 1)
Chase Hilde – 2-for-3 (Game 1)
Ramone Valenzuela – 2-for-3, 2 RBIs, 1 home run (Game 2)
Bradley Morris – 1-for-3, 1 RBI, 1 run scored (Game 2)
Game 1: Menlo 5 - 15 PLNU
Menlo came out swinging in the early innings, putting up two runs in both the second and third frames. Jaden Fulsher provided the biggest highlight of the game with a two-run home run over the right field fence in the third, giving the Oaks momentum against a tough Point Loma squad. Justin Flannery and Chase Hilde each contributed multiple hits, keeping the offense moving. However, Point Loma's relentless attack proved overwhelming, as they scored eight runs in the fourth inning to seize control. Despite a late run in the seventh, Menlo could not mount a comeback, falling 5-15.
Game one saw Trey Silva start and go 3.1 IP, striking one Sea Lion out. Matthew Verdugo came in for 1.2 IP before Donovan Kerr closed out the final inning.
Game 2: Menlo 3 - 23 PLNU
The Oaks struggled to break through Point Loma's dominant pitching in the second game of the doubleheader. The Sea Lions built a commanding lead early, and Menlo found itself playing from behind. However, in the final inning, Ramone Valenzuela delivered a two-run homer to right field to put Menlo on the board. Bradley Morris followed with an RBI hit, but the late surge wasn't enough to overcome the deficit. Caden Barsotti and the Menlo bullpen battled to slow down Point Loma's offense, but the Sea Lions' bats stayed hot, securing a 3-23 win.
Chase Barsotti started on the bump in game two and went 1.1 IP. Landon Rowland came in for 2.2 innings. Charles Williams made an appearance and struck out two Sea Lions, but after 0.2 IP, Brandon Moreno found his composure to close out the final 1.1 innings.
Up Next…
Menlo will look to regroup and bounce back tomorrow on Saturday, March 1 for the remaining two games left in their 4-game series against the Sea Lions of Point Loma Nazarene. First pitch is scheduled for 11am.
