COLUMBUS, Ind. – The IU Columbus baseball team endured a difficult weekend series against Brescia University (Ky.), dropping all three games at Cera Sports Park on March 28-29.
Game 1: Brescia University, 17-6
In Friday's doubleheader opener, despite jumping out to an early lead, IU Columbus fell 17-6 as defensive struggles proved costly with nine errors. Brescia capitalized on the miscues, scoring multiple unearned runs throughout the contest. Brevin Barker provided a bright spot for the home team with a two-run homer, finishing 1-for-4 with 2 RBIs and 2 stolen bases. Lucas Slager and John Bloom each contributed RBI singles in a four-run eighth inning rally that briefly gave IU Columbus hope.
Game 2: Brescia University, 10-2
The nightcap saw IU Columbus again strike first, taking a 2-0 lead in the second inning thanks to a sacrifice fly from Tarron White and an RBI from Baylon Holmes. However, Brescia responded with five runs in the third inning to take control, eventually winning 10-2. The visitors' offensive outburst continued with another five-run inning in the fifth. IU Columbus managed just three hits in the contest while striking out eight times against Brescia pitching.
Game 3: Brescia University, 14-3
Saturday's series finale followed a similar pattern as IU Columbus fell behind 9-1 before attempting a late comeback in an eventual 14-3 defeat. Brescia erupted for 12 runs over the final three innings, highlighted by Chase Christie's grand slam in the seventh. Jared Ross and Karter Simmons provided RBIs for IU Columbus, while Aiden Hapner scored twice after reaching base multiple times. Brevin Barker added two hits including a double in the losing effort.
Defensive struggles continued to plague IU Columbus throughout the series, with a total of 14 errors across the three games compared to just three for Brescia. The pitching staff also had difficulty containing Brescia's offense, which totaled 41 runs on 38 hits during the weekend.
Looking Ahead
The sweep drops IU Columbus to 9-25 overall and 2-10 in conference play. The Crimson Pride will take the week to regroup before they hit the road and continue their conference schedule. IU Columbus returns to action Friday (Apr. 4) at IU Kokomo. The game is scheduled to start at 3:00 PM.
