FHSU Sports Information Department
ST. CHARLES, Mo. – Fort Hays State bounced back from a series-opening loss with a 12-6 win over Lindenwood on Saturday (Apr. 9). A six-run second inning propelled the Tigers to the victory, evening the three-game series at one win a piece. FHSU moved to 17-17 overall and 11-12 in the MIAA, while Lindenwood dropped to 14-18 overall, 8-15 in the MIAA.
After Lindenwood scored two runs in the first, the Tigers took a lead for the first time in the series by scoring six in the second. A Connor Ross triple triggered the six-run rally and he came in to score on a Joe Mapes single. A two-RBI double by Nick Hammeke pushed the Tigers into the lead, 3-2. Trevor Hughes and Hammeke each scored on passed balls and Alex Weiss added an RBI single.
Lindenwood inched its way back into the game with a run in the second and two in the fourth to make it 6-5. But the Tigers pushed their lead to three with a run each in the sixth and seventh. Austin Unrein had an RBI single and Hammeke drove in another run on a fielder’s choice.
Lindenwood added one more run in the eighth, cutting the Tiger lead to 8-6, but FHSU put the game away with four runs in the ninth. The first run scored on a wild pitch, then Hammeke drew a bases loaded walk, his fourth RBI of the game. Ty Redington had an RBI single and Caleb Cherryholmes added an RBI on a fielder’s choice.
Kyle Vogt threw 4.0 innings in his start, allowing five runs (two earned) on eight hits and three walks. He struck out four. Jackson Rolfs threw 3.1 strong innings of relief to earn the win. He allowed just two hits and walked one with four strikeouts, while holding the Lions scoreless. Giles Fox threw 1.2 innings to earn his fourth save of the year, allowing a run on three hits.
Geoff Hartlieb took the loss for Lindenwood, going 5.0 innings in his start. He allowed seven runs (five earned) on seven hits and five walks with a strikeout.
The final game of the three-game series will begin at 12 pm on Sunday.