Box Score  

IU Columbus battled back after an early deficit but couldn't overcome a three-run first inning in a 6-2 loss to Cleary University on Saturday at Grand Park.

Cleary struck quickly in the top of the first, stringing together four hits — including a triple and double — to take a 3-0 lead. The Crimson Pride answered in the bottom half of the inning. Garrett Thurman reached and later scored on an RBI single from Carson McNulty, cutting the deficit to 3-1.

IU Columbus trimmed the margin again in the third inning. Cyrus Robinson led off with a triple and came home on a fielder's choice off the bat of Blake Borkhardt, making it 3-2.

From there, pitching settled in on both sides. Starter Brayden Furnish worked six innings, allowing five runs (four earned) while striking out four and keeping the Crimson Pride within striking distance.

Cleary added two runs in the fifth — one unearned following a defensive miscue — and tacked on an insurance run in the seventh to extend the lead to 6-2.

Borkhardt and McNulty each recorded an RBI, while Robinson and Thurman accounted for two of IU Columbus' four hits. The Crimson Pride drew five walks but were unable to capitalize, leaving five runners on base.

Next on the schedule
The Crimson Pride will host Siena Heights University on Wednesday, February 25 for a doubleheader beginning at noon at CERA Sports Park