Crete, Neb. - Dakota Wesleyan completed a sweep over Doane, winning 8-7 in the first game and 15-7 in the second. Strong hitting and solid pitching, including a standout relief performance by Broc Berry, led the Tigers to secure both victories and improve their conference standing.
Game 1: Dakota Wesleyan 8, Doane 7
Dakota Wesleyan secured an 8-7 victory over Doane, improving their conference record to 8-3. The Tigers demonstrated strong offensive depth with 13 hits, including key contributions from Tommy Dutton, who went 4-for-4 with 1 RBI, and Mason Riley, who hit a 2-run home run. Their offensive consistency, particularly in the 2nd and 7th innings, helped them build a lead that Doane couldn't overcome.
On the mound, Dakota Wesleyan's Mitchell Sand started the game and allowed 4 runs over 5 innings, but it was Alexander Mizsak's solid 3-inning relief appearance that earned him the win. Mizsak gave up 3 runs but kept Doane from staging a comeback, closing the door with a reliable performance. The defense also played a role, with Dakota Wesleyan limiting their errors to 3, while Doane had 1, contributing to the Tigers' control of the game.
Doane struggled with pitching inconsistency, with Riley Plummer allowing 6 runs in 4 innings and Nicolas Yard giving up 2 runs in just 0.1 innings of relief. Despite 11 hits and a home run from Sam Kwapnioski, Doane was unable to capitalize on scoring opportunities and ultimately fell short, as Dakota Wesleyan held their lead and secured the 8-7 win.
Game 2: Dakota Wesleyan 15, Doane 7
Dakota Wesleyan defeated Doane 15-7, securing a dominant win with a total of 15 runs on 12 hits. The Tigers were led offensively by Landon Ruesink, who drove in 3 RBIs, and Ean Laird, who contributed 2 RBIs. Mason Riley and Caleb Meyers also played key roles, adding 1 RBI each. Dakota Wesleyan's offensive depth was on full display as they capitalized on Doane's pitching struggles, scoring in five different innings, including a 6-run fifth. Their consistent run support ensured they built a commanding lead throughout the game.
On the mound, Dakota Wesleyan's Dakota Munger got the start, allowing 6 runs over 3.2 innings, but it was Broc Berry's strong relief performance that helped seal the victory. Berry gave up just 1 earned run in 3.1 innings, striking out 3 while keeping Doane's offense in check. The Tigers' pitching staff limited Doane to 10 hits and 7 runs, with only 5 walks allowed. This control on the mound, combined with timely hitting, made it difficult for Doane to mount a successful comeback.
Doane's pitching was inconsistent, as Broc Songster allowed 5 earned runs in 0.2 innings, and Derek Mendoza (L, 0-1) struggled with 5 earned runs in 3 innings of work. Despite 10 hits and home runs from Kwapnioski and Vulcano, Doane's offensive efforts fell short against Dakota Wesleyan's relentless offense and solid pitching. Dakota Wesleyan's 15-7 victory was a result of strong offensive contributions and effective pitching, solidifying their control of the game.
Key Notes
Dakota Munger demonstrated strong perseverance this weekend, stepping up after playing 54 holes of golf in the prior two days. Despite the fatigue, Munger battled through, contributing significantly to the Tigers' sweep over Doane with his grit and determination on the mound.
Up Next
The Tigers will host a non-conference doubleheader against Mayville State on Wednesday, April 2nd, at Drake Field, with the first game scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m.