LINCOLN, CA – Menlo Baseball put up a strong fight in a doubleheader against Jessup University on Thursday evening, but the Warriors' offense proved too much to overcome. The Oaks showed resilience at the plate, but Jessup capitalized on key opportunities to take both games.
Menlo Statistical Leaders
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Jake Warkentien – 3-for-7, 2 RBIs, 2 runs, 1 home run (Game 1 & 2)
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Matt Morrison – 4-for-7, 1 home run, 4 RBIs (Game 2)
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Carter Harris – 3-for-6, 2 runs, 1 stolen base (Game 2)
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Samuel Brewer – 2-for-6, 2 RBIs (Game 1 & 2)
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Richard Kiel - 4.0 IP, 4 strikeouts, 2 walks, 2 earned runs in relief (Game 1)
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Donovan Kerr – 3.0 IP, 1 strikeout, 2 earned runs in relief (Game 2)
Game 1: Menlo 3 - 12 Jessup
Menlo started strong, scoring in the first, third, and fourth innings, with Jake Warkentien launching a solo home run to highlight the offense in the first inning. Samuel Brewer contributed with a clutch RBI single, and Carter Harris kept the pressure on with a hit and a run scored. However, the Warriors responded with big innings of their own, using the long ball and timely hitting to take control.
On the mound, Trey Silva got the start and worked through two tough innings, allowing six runs while striking out one. Richard Kiel provided stability in relief, pitching four innings and allowing just two earned runs while striking out four. Despite their efforts, Menlo struggled to limit Jessup's power, as the Warriors recorded multiple extra-base hits. Menlo's pitching staff battled, but Jessup's ability to capitalize with runners in scoring position led to a 3-12 final score.
Game 2: Menlo 5 - 10 Jessup
The second game saw an offensive surge from Menlo, led by Matt Morrison's breakout performance. Morrison crushed a home run and drove in four runs, keeping the Oaks in contention. Carter Harris showcased his speed on the basepaths, scoring twice and stealing a base. Menlo rallied in the fourth and sixth innings, putting up five runs, but Jessup's bats stayed hot.
Menlo's pitching staff worked hard to keep the game within reach, with Matthew Verdugo making the start. He faced a tough Jessup lineup, allowing five earned runs in two innings before handing the ball over to the bullpen. Donovan Kerr and Nick Liechty combined for four innings of relief, with Kerr striking out one and giving up two earned runs. Though the staff battled, Jessup continued to find timely hits to secure the win, handing Menlo a 5-10 loss.
Up Next…
The Oaks will look to regroup as they look to host the Warriors at home on Cartan Field on Saturday, March 8th in another doubleheader starting at 11am.
