St. Paul, MN -- Thursday, North Central University (NCU) Baseball returned to Reynolds Field for a non-conference doubleheader against the College of St. Scholastica (CSS) Saints. This UMAC-MIAC showdown featured a pair of 7-inning games. The Rams showed flashes offensively, manufacturing runs in key middle innings, but ultimately fell in both matchups by scores of 10-2 in game one and 12-3 in game two, highlighted by timely hitting from freshman infielder Darrion Wesley and junior outfielder Jacob Garcia.

Game 1: North Central 2, St. Scholastica 10

North Central looked to settle in early defensively, but the Saints capitalized in the opening innings to build an early lead. The Rams battled through the middle frames, generating offense in the fifth inning to cut into the deficit. Freshman infielder Darrion Wesley provided a spark, reaching base and later scoring after advancing into scoring position. Junior outfielder Jacob Garcia helped create pressure on the basepaths, while junior outfielder Jacobi Woodfin delivered the key swing of the game with an RBI double to right center, driving in one of the Rams' two runs. Woodfin would later come around to score, accounting for both North Central runs in the inning. Despite the late push, North Central was limited to just two hits on the day, with Woodfin and Wesley accounting for the pair. The Rams also forced defensive miscues that contributed to their scoring, showing persistence even while trailing. On the mound, sophomore left-handed pitcher Brian Dahlstrand got the start, while sophomore right-handed pitcher Colten Chastain provided valuable relief innings, helping stabilize the game after an early surge.

Game 2: North Central 3, St. Scholastica 12

The Rams responded with improved offensive production in game two, stringing together key at-bats in the middle innings to briefly take control. After a scoreless start, North Central broke through in the fourth inning. Freshman catcher Isaiah Collazo delivered an RBI walk with the bases loaded, bringing home Darrion Wesley for the game's first run. The momentum continued into the fifth inning, where the Rams capitalized on disciplined plate appearances. Jacob Garcia delivered a clutch RBI single down the left field line, while Colten Chastain added a sacrifice fly to extend the lead to 3-0. Wesley was a consistent presence on the basepaths, scoring twice and drawing multiple walks, while Garcia led the offense with a 2-for-3 performance, an RBI, and a stolen base. On the mound, freshman right-handed pitcher Ivan Demel held things in check early, keeping the game scoreless through four innings before the opposition rallied late. Senior left-handed pitcher Tim Yohan Dixon and sophomore right-handed pitcher Tim Bullert combined in relief, working through high-pressure situations. North Central finished with three runs on limited hits but showcased patience at the plate, drawing five walks and taking multiple hit-by-pitches to generate offense.

Top Performers: 

• Jacob Garcia (Jr., RF): Game 2: 2-3, RBI, SB, BB
• Darrion Wesley (Fr., 1B): combined 3 R, 2 BB, SB
• Jacobi Woodfin (Jr., CF/PR): combined 1-3, 2 R, RBI, 2B

Looking Ahead: 

Up next, the Rams travel to Menomonie, Wisconsin, for another non-conference doubleheader, this time taking on the University of Wisconsin-Stout out of the WIAC. That doubleheader is scheduled for Tuesday, March 31st, at 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM at Wakanda Park.

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