Box Score 1 | Box Score 2 LINCOLN, Ill . -- The North Central University (NCU) baseball went on the road for a doubleheader in Illinois this afternoon as they matched up with Lincoln Christian University (LCU). The Rams were quick to the punch in both games on the afternoon scoring in each of the opening frames. In game one LCU answered back and it was the Rams battling to regain the lead while never relinquishing it. In game number two, the Rams continued to grow their lead after their hot start as they cruised to a 1-6 victory, completing the series sweep. 

Game One Recap

After a long layoff since their first action, the Rams came out of the gate firing. Knocking in the first run for NCU was Freshman Julian Encinas who is off to a great start in his collegiate career. The RBI in the opening inning was the first of three in game number one for Encinas. LCU was quick to punch back in the bottom half of the first as they answered the Ram's lone run with two of their own. The Red Lions of LCU were able to grow their lead to two runs in the bottom half of the second inning, but that was as large as the lead would get as the two went back and forth with five total lead changes in the ball game. After the Red Lions knotted it up 5 to 5 in the 5th inning, the Rams used a three-run seventh inning to secure an 8 to 5 victory. 

Game Two Recap
The Rams got the scoring started once again in the top half of the first inning in game number two. This time it was Jack Parker getting in on the action, bringing Kyle Heurth in to score thanks to a one-out single. NCU put together back-to-back-to-back scoring innings as they mounted their lead to four total runs. That hot start was all Pitcher Tanner Oka needed to get himself comfortable on the mound. Oka only gave up six total hits on the afternoon, while striking out 3 and holding the Red Lions scoreless for the first three innings. LCU gave Oka his only blemish on the afternoon in the bottom half of the 4th inning, but the push from the Red Lions was not enough to fluster Oka as he closed with three more scoreless innings en route to the 6 to 1 victory.


Key Performers

• In the first game, Julian Encinas notched two hits and three RBIs
• Pitcher Christian Rodriguez closed the door in game number one pitching three innings while giving up just one run and striking out 5 batters
• Game 2 starter Tanner Oka picked up his first win of the year while striking out three batters

Looking Ahead

The Rams will be back in action this coming week as they play a home game away from home. The Rams will take on Northwestern in a home game that will take place at the Eagle's home field in Roseville, MN due to field conditions. First pitch is set for 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Match 29th. All fans are encouraged to tune into official Rams Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter pages for updates on the baseball team and much more information.