By: Alex Plusquellec

NEWBERG, Ore. --- The George Fox baseball team hosted Pacific Lutheran on a cool Friday afternoon, falling to the Lutes 8-2.

Recap:
The Lutes took an early lead over the Bruins on an RBI double top half of the first inning. In the home half of the second inning, Brandon Wileman doubled down the left field line but was left stranded on second base. 

In the top of the third inning, PLU used two hits and a walk to load the bases against Dustin Wells but the lefty was able to get out of the jam without giving up a run. 

In the top of the fourth however, the Lutes were able to extend their lead after an RBI double and a three-run home run. 

The Bruins cut into the lead in the bottom of the seventh inning when Jalen Drath drove in Connor Newell on an RBI single. Later in the inning, Zachery Muenster's sacrifice fly to right field brought Kyle Esquerra home and the Lutes lead was 5-2 going into the eighth.

The Lutes picked up three more runs in the top of the eighth, pushing their lead to 8-2. The Bruins stranded two on base in the ninth, and PLU won 8-2.

Top Performers:
Jalen Drath was perfect from the DH spot, going 3 for 3 and driving in the Bruins first run. Zachery Muenster drove in a run as well, and Esquerra, Newell and Matt Voelzke each recorded a hit.

What It Means:
After the loss, the Bruins are 17-18 on the season.

What Comes Next:
The Bruins will honor their seniors at graduation Saturday before returning to action to take on the Linfield Wildcats Sunday in a double header. First pitch is set for 12 p.m.