Maple Grove/St. Paul, MN – Saturday, North Central University (NCU) baseball continued its series with Crown College in a doubleheader that was impacted by weather across the weekend. The Rams split the contests, dropping the opener in a game that was originally started on Saturday before being suspended and resumed on Monday, before responding with a strong bounce-back victory in game two. North Central showcased resilience throughout the day, highlighted by a dominant offensive showing and a complete effort on the mound in the finale.

Game 1: North Central 5, Crown 23

Game one began on Saturday but was halted due to rain before being resumed and completed on Monday at Reynolds Field. Despite the disruption, the Rams battled throughout the contest and continued to find offensive production across multiple innings. North Central struck in the second inning when freshman catcher Aaron Alvarado reached base to spark the rally before freshman infielder Orlando Guzman launched a two-run home run to left field. The Rams continued to respond offensively, with freshman infielder Jack Meckler adding a solo home run in the fourth inning to keep momentum building. Late in the game, senior infielder Dawson Barson drove in a run with an RBI single in the seventh inning, while the Rams continued to work quality at-bats, drawing multiple walks and creating opportunities on the basepaths. Although the result did not fall in their favor, North Central showed persistence at the plate with contributions from Barson, Meckler, Alvarado, and senior infielder Juan Rodriguez, finishing with five hits and continued offensive pressure.

Game 2: North Central 5, Crown 2

With momentum shifting into the second game, the Rams delivered one of their most complete performances of the season, overcoming another weather interruption as a lightning delay briefly paused play in the later innings. North Central wasted no time getting on the board, scoring three runs in the opening inning. Senior infielder Dawson Barson set the tone early before sophomore infielder Abiram Terron De Jesus delivered an RBI single. Freshman utility player Aaron Alvarado followed with an RBI groundout, helping the Rams build an early advantage. The Rams added crucial insurance in the fourth inning when Barson crushed a two-run home run down the left field line, extending the lead and energizing the dugout. At the plate, Barson led the way with a standout 3-for-4 performance, including a home run, double, and two RBIs. Freshman infielder Anthony Barajas added multiple hits and made a major impact on the basepaths with three stolen bases, while freshman outfielder Keo Coleman contributed two hits and a double to keep the offense rolling. On the mound, sophomore left-handed pitcher Brian Dahlstrand delivered a composed outing, tossing six innings while allowing just two runs (one earned). Freshman right-hander Justin Hostetler took over following the delay and shut the door with three scoreless innings to secure the save and complete the Rams' response. North Central totaled 10 hits in the contest, capitalizing on early scoring opportunities and maintaining control throughout despite the mid-game interruption.

Top Performers:

• Dawson Barson (Sr., SS): combined 4-7, HR, 2B, 3 RBI, 3 R, BB
• Orlando Guzman (Fr., 2B): Game 1: 1-2, HR, 2 RBI, R
• Anthony Barajas (Fr., 3B/2B): Game 2: 2-4, 3 SB
• Brian Dahlstrand (So., LHP): Game 2: 6.0 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 2 SO, Win
• Justin Hostetler (Fr., RHP): Game 2: 3.0 IP, 0 ER, Save

Looking Ahead:

Up next, the Rams return to UMAC play on the road as they face the University of Minnesota Morris in a rescheduled doubleheader on Wednesday, April 15th. First pitch is set for 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM at Chizek Field in Morris, MN.

All fans are encouraged to tune into the official Rams Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter (X) pages for updates on baseball and all things NCU Athletics.