SALINA, Kan. — Ottawa University responded in a big way in game two of Saturday's KCAC doubleheader, using timely hitting and a clutch sixth inning to secure a 5-4 victory over Kansas Wesleyan and earn a split on the day.
After being limited offensively in game one, the Braves flipped the script in game two, collecting nine hits and delivering in key moments to outlast the Coyotes.
Game 1 – Kansas Wesleyan 6, Ottawa 0
Ottawa battled early behind solid pitching from
Lanie Becker, keeping the game scoreless through four innings. The Braves even threatened in the fourth with hits from
Devanie Medina and
Braxton Stainbrook, but Kansas Wesleyan escaped the jam.
The Coyotes broke through in the fifth with an RBI double, then capitalized on miscues in the sixth inning. A five-run frame — aided by multiple hits and Ottawa errors — created separation that proved too much to overcome.
Despite the scoreline, Ottawa's pitching kept things within reach into the late innings before the sixth inning surge.
Game 2 – Ottawa 5, Kansas Wesleyan 4
Ottawa wasted no time setting the tone in game two.
Abby Bellamy tripled to open the game and later scored on a wild pitch to give the Braves a 1-0 lead.
After Kansas Wesleyan answered in the bottom half, Ottawa regained the lead in the second inning on a solo home run from
Brookelynn Becker.
The Coyotes took a 3-2 lead in the fifth, but Ottawa delivered the decisive blow in the sixth inning.
Lilli Richerson tied the game with a solo home run before the Braves loaded the bases.
Alexandra Genty drew a go-ahead RBI walk, and
Tori Farnham added an insurance run with a sacrifice fly to make it 5-3.
Kansas Wesleyan added a run in the sixth, but Ottawa's bullpen locked things down.
Lanie Becker came in to record the final five outs and secure the save, sealing the Braves' victory.
Stats Recap
Game 1
Game 2
Who is Next
Ottawa (28-15, 16-6) returns to the diamond on Tuesday, April 21 in Lindsborg, Kan. against Bethany College. Game one of the double header is scheduled for 1:00 p.m.
