Baseball Scores Often to Top No. 12 Missouri Baptist

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — Doane Baseball delivered its most explosive offensive performance of the young season Thursday night, defeating No. 12 Missouri Baptist 18–11 at Weber Field. The Tigers pounded out 16 hits and scored in five consecutive innings to improve to 7-2 overall.

After Missouri Baptist jumped out to an early 5–2 lead through two innings, Doane responded quickly. After the Tigers plated two runs in the second, they erupting for four runs in the third to take the lead. Doane then took control with a decisive stretch that included one run in the fourth, six in the fifth, and five more in the sixth to build a commanding advantage.

Grant Sommers led the offensive barrage with a career night, going 4-for-5 with a double, five RBI, and three runs scored while also stealing two bases. Tanner Nelson added a big swing with a home run and four RBI, finishing with two hits and two walks.

At the top of the lineup, Carter Roth and Sam Kwapnioski each scored three runs, while Max Harris contributed two hits, two RBI, and three runs scored. Johnny Vulcano added two hits as part of a balanced attack that saw seven Tigers record at least one hit.

Doane also applied pressure on the bases, stealing seven bags without being caught.

Missouri Baptist stayed within striking distance thanks largely to leadoff hitter Carlos Hidalgo, who went 4-for-5 with two home runs and four RBI. The Spartans pulled within seven after a five-run sixth inning, but the Tigers' bullpen shut the door over the final three frames.

Kaden Crawford earned the win on the mound, working five innings with six strikeouts to move to 3-0 on the season. Ethan Merk provided key relief, striking out six over four innings to secure the victory with a save.

As a team, Doane drew nine walks and capitalized on three Missouri Baptist errors while posting 14 RBI with runners on base.

(generated by ChatGPT)