The Pioneers split a non-conference double header vs. Friends University on Monday. In game one, MNU scored a run in the first inning, but could manage to score again and lost 2-1. Sophomore lefty
Justin Huggins was the tough luck losing pitcher in his Pioneer debut, and
Tim Purdin (2-3, 3B) and
Kirk Nungester (2-3) had 2 hits apiece.
In game 2, righty
Kent Swanson entered the game in the second inning with the bases loaded, one out, and a run already in. Swanson got out of trouble with no further damage, and allowed just one earned run through the 6th inning. The Pioneers took advantage of 3 hits, a walk, and 2 stolen bases to score 3 in the first, and picked up 2 more in the second when
Tim Purdin hit a 2-run bomb onto the track beyond the right field fence. MNU took a 6-3 lead into the 7th, but Friends put a rally together against closer Dave Staton and managed to get the tying run on base with two outs. Staton ended the threat with his 3rd strikeout of the inning, and MNU won 6-5.
Kevin Liddle (1-2, 2 R, RBI, BB, SF),
Tim Purdin (1-2, R, HR, 2 RBI, BB),
Jarid Renzelman (2-3, R, RBI), and
Kirk Nungester (2-3, 2B, SB) led the offense.
The Pioneers are 8-6. The next game is a single 9-inning contest on Wednesday at home vs. Ottawa University (6-4) at 1:00.
