Thrilling Finish: Late Game Struggles Cost Wheeling University Against #10 West Chester

Cary, NC – The Wheeling University Baseball team faced a tough challenge on Saturday, taking on the #10 West Chester University. After a promising start, the Cardinals ultimately fell 14-4, marking their second loss of the weekend and leaving their record at 3-3.

The game began with excitement as Brett Johnson hit a single to kick things off. He swiftly stole second base, setting the stage for Dylan Maltby, who drew a walk. With runners on first and second, Steven Merkel stepped up and knocked an RBI single into right field, bringing Johnson home and putting Wheeling ahead 1-0. Unfortunately, the lead was short-lived; West Chester quickly tied it with an RBI single of their own in the bottom of the first.

Both teams settled into a rhythm, with solid pitching keeping the score knotted at 1-1 through the second and third innings. In the fourth, Wheeling found itself in a promising position, loading the bases with one out. However, a double play squashed their chances of adding to the scoreboard.

West Chester capitalized on the opportunity, scoring two runs in the bottom of the fourth to take a 3-1 lead. Wheeling’s Wes Landis pitched well, going five innings with three runs allowed. He struck out five batters before handing the ball to the bullpen.

Lamont Aikans took over but faced some challenges, giving up a run in the sixth. West Chester then expanded their lead to 7-1 with a three-run seventh inning, putting Wheeling in a tough spot. But the Cardinals fought back in the eighth.

Josh Rush pinch-hit to start the inning and earned a walk. Johnson followed suit with another walk. Christian Boyles then stepped up and hit an RBI single, making it 7-2. With runners at the corners, Maltby brought another run home with a groundout. After a hit-by-pitch and a walk, Spencer Craig’s hit got the Cardinals within three runs at 7-4.

Despite the rally, West Chester quickly regained control in the bottom of the eighth, scoring seven more runs and sealing the game at 14-4.

Steven Merkel stood out for Wheeling, going 2-for-3 with an RBI. Johnson also had a strong game with a 2-for-4 performance. Boyles and Maltby each contributed with important runs batted in. The team aims to finish the weekend on a high note.

Looking ahead, Wheeling University Baseball will play against St. Thomas Aquinas on Sunday, March 2, with the first pitch scheduled for 9:30 AM.

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