Oilers Drop Tight One to Ashland

Winter Haven, FL – The University of Findlay baseball team was defeated by the Ashland University Eagles in a 5-3 final on Monday, March 5 at Henley Field. The loss drops the Oilers to a 3-2 overall record while Ashland improves to a 3-2 record.

The Oilers went down early in this one, giving up one run in the bottom of the first inning on a one-out double, another run in the second on a two-out single, and three runs in the fourth.

Facing a five run deficit, Findlay saw some life in their offense in the top of the sixth inning. Freshman outfielder Ethan St. Clair reached first on a hit by pitch, and was later scored on a two-run homerun from the bat of Junior Nic Varda. This was the second homerun of the year for Varda.

After a scoreless seventh and eighth inning for both squads, the Oilers had their last chance to even the score in the top of the ninth.

After a leadoff single from freshman catcher Ryan O'Malley, senior Troy Merriman reached first with two outs on an error from the second baseman. Freshman Tyler Burley, who pinch ran for O'Malley, scored on the error.

That would not be enough for the Oilers, as the game would end two batters later on a full count bases loaded popfly to the left fielder.

Senior Cory Carl got the start on the mound and received the loss for the Oilers. Carl went 6 2/3 innings, gave up up five runs (all earned) and recorded five strikeouts during the game.

Freshman Jordan Bekier entered in the six inning and finished the game for Findlay. Bekier recorded one strikeout and allowed no runs during the outing.

The Oilers will be back on the field on Wednesday, March 7 at Chain of Lakers Park Field to take on Minnesota Duluth. First pitch is set for 10:30 AM.