Warriors Come Up Just Short in Pair of Games in Kansas

BALDWIN CITY, Kan. – Midland University wrapped up its trip to Kansas with a game against Dakota State University and one against Baker University. The Warriors' comeback fell just short in game one, resulting in a 5-4 loss to Dakota State. In the finale, Midland battled but came up short again, falling 1-0 to Baker.

GAME ONE: Dakota State 5, Midland 4

Dakota State jumped out to an early 4-0 lead with a grand slam in the bottom of the first inning. The Trojans extended their advantage with another home run in the third, making it 5-0.

Midland ended its scoring drought in the top of the seventh when Anthony Martinez, Alec Villanueva, and Jacob Liquori drew three consecutive walks to load the bases. Dax Wandler then crushed a grand slam, cutting the deficit to 5-4. The Warriors continued to rally as Eimir Perez reached on an error, and Nate Reyes was hit by a pitch to put two more runners on. Joshua Hardamon then drew a walk to load the bases again. However, Dakota State held strong and shut down the Warriors' comeback attempt, securing the 5-4 win.

Statistical Standout

• Dax Wandler: 1-for-1, 4 RBI, HR

GAME TWO: Baker 1, Midland 0

The lone run of the game came in the bottom of the third inning. Baker opened the frame with a hit-by-pitch and a walk, then executed a double steal to put two runners in scoring position. The game-winning run was later scored on a wild pitch.

Despite collecting six hits, Midland was unable to push a run across as Baker secured the 1-0 victory.

Statistical Standouts

• Alec Villanueva: 1-for-3, 2B
• Cole Hupke: 5.0 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 2 BB, 9 K

Midland (2-9) will have a quick turnaround as it busses back home to Nebraska before hopping on a plane to West Palm Beach, Florida, for a four-game series against (RV) Keiser (9-0). Game one of the series is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 27 at Silvester Jr. Field.