By: Alex Plusquellec

MCMINNVILLE, Ore. --- After waiting out a five-hour delay due to weather, the George Fox baseball team finally took the diamond Sunday, falling to Linfield 6-2 in the second game of a three-game series.

Recap:

The long delay took its toll on both lineups early, as neither the Bruins nor the Wildcats could find their rhythm at the plate. Linfield's Cason Cunningham sat down seven of the first eight Bruin hitters while AJ Atherton kept the 'Cats in check through the first four innings, allowing just two hits.

The Bruins were only able to piece together one hit against Cunningham, but it was enough to produce a run and take an early lead. Jerred Seamons and Jantzen Tamanaha both reached base via walk, and with two outs Sam Swenson found a gap in left field allowing Seamons to score.

The Bruins led 1-0 after three innings and carried the lead into the fifth.

After getting through the first four unscathed, the 'Cats were able to get to Atherton in the fifth after stringing together three singles. Linfield was able to score two and grab a 2-1 lead after five innings.

The Bruins stranded two on base in the top of the sixth as both teams went scoreless. In the seventh, it was the 'Cats who cashed in again, this time to the tune of four runs. Down to their final six outs, the Bruins found themselves in a 6-1 hole.

Despite a leadoff single from Kyler Brudwick in the eighth, the Bruins were not able to generate any offense. Needing to get things going in the ninth, Matt Voelzke homered to left to get the Bruins within four.

With two outs, Seamons singled up the middle, sparking what looked to be a late rally. Tamanaha and Swenson drew back to back walks to load the bases, but Brudwick's grounder to third allowed the 'Cats to get the force out at second base and secure the 6-2 victory.

Top Performers:

On a night when the bats were quiet, Voelzke was able to notch his first home run of the season. Brudwick, Seamons and Swenson each turned in 1 for 3 days while Swenson tallied his 22nd RBI of the year.

What It Means:

The Bruins drop their first Northwest Conference game of the year, bringing their overall record to 10-3, including a 4-1 mark in the NWC.

What Comes Next:

The rubber match between the Bruins and Wildcats is set for Monday night at 5 p.m.