By T’evon Shuler

ATHENS, Tenn. – The Tennessee Wesleyan University Baseball team (13-0) swept a three-game series against visiting Columbia International University, February 23 and 24, at Athens Insurance Stadium. The dominant performance by the second-ranked Bulldogs came one day early, as forecasted rain caused the series to be moved up.

Game 1: 12-2

After a slow start offensively, the Bulldogs ran away in the 6^th inning, scoring seven runs en route to the eventual run rule after eight innings.

Robert Kelley and Sam Rochard combined for seven strikeouts through eight innings, only allowing two runs.

The 12-hit TWU attack was led by Andre Tarver, who recorded three hits, all doubles, and two RBI. Carson Ford added two doubles, two RBI, and a run scored. Parker Stinnett had two hits, including a two-run home run. Dan Sayre also had two hits, two RBI, and two runs scored.

Game 2: 6-5

TWU earned the walk-off win in game two, as Stinnett scored on a pinch-hit single by Chad Picton. The second contest was closer as the Bulldogs and Rams battled through four lead changes and two ties.

Offensively Cayle Webster led the team with a double and a home run, knocking in two. Preston Welchel also contributed two doubles, scoring twice.

The winning pitcher was Kyle Bloor, who gave up one run in two innings, striking out four.

Game 3 (Friday): 7-0

TWU completed the sweep with the shutout win, Friday.

Blake Peyton earned the win, pitching 5.1 shutout innings with nine strikeouts, allowing just one hit. Carter Gannaway shut the door, not allowing a hit in 3.2 innings.

Sayre helped the team on offense with two doubles and two runs scored. Stinnett added a hit, an RBI, and also scored twice.

Edited by Parker Stinnett
Photos by Matti Bray
Video by Dan Thornton