By Jacob Hayes

Newberg, Ore. --- The George Fox Bruins struggled against the visiting Linfield Wildcats, losing both doubleheader games 14-2 (8 innings) and 6-1.

How it Happened

Game one was tight through four innings with the score tied at 1-1, but the Wildcats strung together rallies in the next four innings, scoring 13 runs.  George Fox scored in the seventh thanks to Spencer Roos' RBI single to knock in Emery Miller, but nothing else stuck.  Bruin pitching was batted around hard as four of the five pitchers used were charged with at least one earned run.  

Linfield jumped out to an early lead in game two with four runs in two innings, which would ultimately be enough.  Nonetheless, Bruin senior Connor Smith had a special moment in the bottom of the fifth when he hit his first career home run over the left field fence.  Though it looked like his shot would jumpstart the offense, the Bruins ended up standing three runners to end the inning.  From the fifth inning on, the Bruins stranded seven total base runners, five in scoring position, batting a brutal 0-6 with two outs and 0-10 with runners in scoring position.  The Wildcats tacked on two more runs in the fifth to finalize the score 6-1.  

Top Performers

Connor Smith finished his day 3-3 with a home run.  Not only was his home run the first of his career, but his first extra base hit as a Bruin.  Austin Hallman closed out game two with one and two-thirds innings pitched, allowing zero hits.

What it Means

The Bruins have lost 9 of their last 11, falling to 11-14 in conference play.  The Wildcats improve to 8-16.

What Happens Next

George Fox returns to the Morse Athletic Fields for a second doubleheader against Linfield on Monday, May 3.  First pitch of game one is scheduled for 12pm.