ATHERTON, CA – Menlo Baseball engaged in an intense doubleheader against Chaminade University on Saturday, with both games filled with highs and lows. Despite competitive performances, the Oaks ultimately fell short in both matchups. The day was highlighted by standout individual performances  and late-game drama that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Menlo Statistical Leaders

• Ramone Valenzuela: 4-7, 1 run, 1 double

• Jaden Fulsher: 1-7, 2 RBI, 1 run, 1 HR

• Samuel Brewer: 2-8, 2 RBI, 1 HR

• Justin Flannery: 2-4, 1 RBI, 1 run, 1 double

• Matthew Zarrellio: 1-3, 1 run, 1 double

• Carter Harris: 1 triple

• Trey Silva: 6.0 IP, 3 K, 1 ER, 1 BB

Game 1: Menlo 5 - 6 Chaminade

The opening game saw the Oaks strike first in the bottom of the first inning, as Justin Flannery doubled to left center before Samuel Brewer drove him in with an RBI single. Menlo's early lead held firm through a tightly contested defensive battle, with both teams missing scoring opportunities. Chaminade managed to tie the game in the third, capitalizing on an error. Menlo reclaimed the lead in the eighth when Jaden Fulsher hit a bomb over the left field fence for a 2-run homer. 

However, Chaminade responded in the ninth, delivering a crushing three-run home run to take a 6-3 lead. The Oaks put together a late rally, with multiple hitters reaching base in the bottom of the ninth. Jake Warkentien drew a bases-loaded walk and Flannery followed with an RBI single to score Valenzuela, however a crucial double play at third base and home plate halted the comeback attempt, sealing a heartbreaking 5-6 loss.

On the mound, Trey Silva turned in a solid start, keeping Chaminade in check through six innings. He also struck out 3 Silverswords while only walking 1. Matthew Verdugo worked in relief, but the late-inning power from Chaminade proved to be the difference-maker.

Game 2: Menlo 2 - 6 Chaminade

The second game followed a similar pattern, with Menlo battling hard but struggling to break through against Chaminade's pitching. After falling behind in the second inning, the Oaks responded in the fourth when Samuel Brewer launched a solo home run to tie the game at 1-1. Chaminade answered back with a four-run fifth inning, taking advantage of defensive miscues and timely hitting.

Menlo attempted to claw back into the game in the seventh, as Matthew Zarriello doubled to left center, setting the stage for Carter Harris to drive him in with a clutch RBI triple. However, Chaminade's bullpen held firm, securing a 2-6 victory to sweep the doubleheader.

Menlo's pitching staff battled throughout the contest, with Anthony Tellez making the start and striking out four in four innings. Sam Grannes came in for relief, allowing one run over two innings, but the Oaks were unable to recover from the early deficit.

Up Next….

Despite the tough results, Menlo showcased its resilience and will look to turn its competitive play into victories tomorrow during their final doubleheader against the Silverswords of Chaminade University at Mission College in Santa Clara, CA starting at 11am.