Hastings, Neb. - Dakota Wesleyan swept Hastings in a doubleheader, winning 2-1 in the first game behind Alison Ernsberger's 10-inning performance. The Tigers then secured an 8-3 victory in the second game, with strong offensive contributions and solid pitching, further boosting their momentum in the conference.
Game 1: Dakota Wesleyan 2, Hastings 1
Dakota Wesleyan claimed a 2-1 victory over Hastings in a tightly contested game. The Tigers were led by pitcher Alison Ernsberger, who delivered a stellar performance in the circle, going the full 10 innings and allowing just 1 run on 5 hits. Ernsberger walked 5 batters while striking out 6, and her strong outing earned her the win, improving her record to 14-4. The defense was solid behind her, and there were no errors committed, which helped limit Hastings' scoring opportunities.
Offensively, Dakota Wesleyan wasn't able to generate much offense but managed to score 2 runs on 7 hits. McKinnely Mull and Macy Moore each drove in one run apiece, contributing to the Tigers' offense. Mull's key hit came in the middle innings, and Moore followed up with another clutch RBI later in the game. While the Tigers left 7 runners on base, they made the most of their opportunities when they counted.
Hastings' pitcher, Kiera Brack, also threw a complete 10-inning game, allowing only 2 runs on 7 hits, but was unable to prevent the Tigers from securing the victory. While Hastings only mustered 5 hits in the game, they were able to capitalize on a run in the first inning, but couldn't manage to score again. Dakota Wesleyan's timely offense and Ernsberger's excellent pitching performance were enough to secure the hard-fought win.
Game 2: Dakota Wesleyan 7, Hasting 5
Dakota Wesleyan secured a 7-5 victory over Hastings behind a solid performance from pitcher Keirstyn Krcil, who earned her 11th win of the season. Krcil threw a complete game, allowing just 1 earned run on 10 hits, striking out 2, and walking none in 7 innings of work. Her dominant pitching performance, along with solid defense, allowed the Tigers to hold off a late charge from Hastings. Despite a couple of errors, the Tigers played well behind their ace and limited the damage despite the Broncos' 5 runs.
Offensively, Dakota Wesleyan was led by a strong performance from Jaycee Tebay, who drove in 2 RBIs on 2 hits. Peyton Bagley and McKinnely Mull also contributed to the Tigers' attack, each scoring 2 runs. Macy Moore and Jordyn Blogg each added 3 hits, with Blogg also picking up a double. Although the Tigers left 3 runners on base, they made the most of their opportunities, especially in the late innings, to seal the win. Their 7 runs on 11 hits were enough to fend off Hastings.
Hastings had their chances, scoring 4 runs in the third inning, but couldn't keep up with Dakota Wesleyan's offense. Dani Sitts pitched the full 7 innings for Hastings, allowing 7 runs on 11 hits and taking the loss. Lauren Lee, Ana Medeiros, and Lexie Mudloff each contributed RBIs, but the Broncos' efforts fell short as Dakota Wesleyan maintained control of the game. Despite the Broncos' resilience, the Tigers held firm and finished strong to secure the win and extend their strong season record.
Up Next
Dakota Wesleyan will host Dordt for a doubleheader this Wednesday, with the first game scheduled to start at 3:00 p.m. at Dr. McWhirter Field.