TACOMA, Wash. – The Linfield University Wildcats remain undefeated as the Puget Sound Loggers fall 12-4 then 10-2 Saturday afternoon on Logger Field.
Game 1: Puget Sound 4, Linfield 12
After a hard-fought battle on the diamond, Linfield University emerged victorious against Puget Sound. The game commenced with Linfield's Kaili Saathoff drawing a walk, setting the stage for an early offensive push. Despite Puget Sound's efforts to stifle their opponent's momentum, Linfield capitalized on scoring opportunities, with Tiani Wayton delivering a crucial hit to drive in two runs.
Puget Sound quickly responded in the bottom of the inning, with Hope Fleischman's powerful homer igniting a three-run surge, evening the score. However, Linfield regained control in the subsequent innings, showcasing their offensive prowess with well-timed hits and strategic base running.
As the game progressed, Linfield continued to widen the gap, with players like Jacey Leyvas and Cydney Hess delivering key hits to extend their lead. Puget Sound continued to fight back with a total of six left on base, struggling to contain Linfield's impressive pitching.
In the final innings, Linfield secured their victory with another flurry of runs, putting the game out of reach for Puget Sound. Despite a late-game rally attempt by Puget Sound, Linfield's solid defense and consistent pitching sealed the win.
Game 2: Puget Sound 2, Linfield 10
The game kicked off with Linfield's Kaili Saathoff swiftly making her mark again, getting hit by a pitch and stealing second before eventually crossing home plate to put Linfield on the scoreboard. Despite Puget Sound's efforts to rally in the bottom of the inning, Linfield's defense held strong, shutting down their opponents without any runs. Puget Sound fought valiantly but struggled to match Linfield's offensive firepower, facing challenges in generating scoring opportunities.
In the later innings, Linfield maintained their momentum, with players like Jacey Leyvas and Brynn Nelson contributing crucial hits to widen the gap. Puget Sound mounted a late-game comeback attempt in the sixth inning, but it wasn't enough to overcome Linfield's lead.
By the final inning, Linfield had solidified their victory, with stellar performances from their players securing the win. The game concluded with Linfield emerging triumphant with a final score of 10-2, underscoring their dominance in the matchup. Despite the defeat, Puget Sound showed resilience and determination throughout the game, setting the stage for future matchups between these two formidable teams.
The Loggers meet again on Logger Field tomorrow, April 7, at 11 a.m. to finish the second half of the Northwest Conference double-header between the visiting Linfield Wildcats and your Puget Sound Loggers.