Nelson Grand Slam Backs Strong Pitching; Baseball Splits Day One with Bulldogs

LINCOLN, Neb. — Doane used a late offensive surge and dominant pitching to secure a 6-2 victory over Concordia in game two of Friday's GPAC doubleheader at Sherman Field.

With the win, the Tigers improved to 17-6 overall and 4-2 in conference play.

Doane broke through in the third inning when Sam Kwapnioski delivered a solo home run to give the Tigers a 1-0 lead. The game remained a tight pitcher's duel for much of the afternoon, with both teams struggling to generate consistent offense.

The Tigers added another run in the seventh to extend their advantage to 2-0 before delivering the decisive blow in the ninth inning. Doane erupted for four runs in the final frame, highlighted by a grand slam from Tanner Nelson, pushing the lead to 6-0. Nelson finished with five RBIs in the game, providing the key offensive spark for Doane.

On the mound, Nicolas Yard was outstanding, tossing eight innings while allowing just one run on six hits with eight strikeouts. He kept Concordia off balance throughout the contest and earned the victory.

Concordia attempted a late rally in the ninth inning, scoring two runs, but Garrett Klein came on in relief to close out the game and secure the win.

Carter Roth led Doane at the plate with two hits and two runs scored, while the Tigers made the most of limited opportunities with six hits producing six runs.

Doane's pitching staff combined for nine strikeouts and limited Concordia to just two runs, helping the Tigers earn a split on the day in conference play.

Up Next: Doane returns to action tomorrow to continue GPAC play against the Bulldogs as the series moves to Crete.

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