JOHNSON CITY, Tenn.— Indianapolis secured the 6-2 victory in game one of Saturday's doubleheader, but fell in the second matchup in a narrow 5-4 defeat on Saturday night. The Greyhounds managed six hits and drew seven walks in the first game, but Davenport's late ninth-inning rally secured the victory. The squads split the series 2-2.
GAME 1 | UIndy 6, Davenport 2
Davenport initially took a one-run lead in the first inning with a single by Justin Johnson, driving in Sam Clay. However, Indianapolis quickly responded in their half with a sacrifice fly from Chase Mason, scoring Austin Bode to tie the game. The pivotal moment arrived in the third inning, when Garrett Rusch's walk set the stage for a five-run surge. Gavin Duran's RBI single broke the tie, and Solen Munson's RBI single, followed by a productive groundout from Luke Smock expanded the lead. A passed ball allowed Munson to cross the plate, capping a decisive inning.
Indianapolis capitalized on free passes and timely hitting, with Brayton Bowen drawing three walks and Munson contributing two hits. Duran's aggressive baserunning, including a stolen base, added pressure on Davenport's defense. The Greyhounds' defense also played a crucial role, turning two double plays that curtailed Davenport's scoring opportunities. The home team maintained its composure, with Aidan Pearson closing the door on any late threats from Davenport.
Aidan Pearson had a strong performance with 3 2/3 innings pitched, giving up just 1 hit and no runs, striking out 3, and maintaining a WHIP of 0.31.
Gavin Duran recorded a hit, an RBI, and scored a run, while also adding a stolen base to his efforts. Solen Munson contributed with two hits and an RBI, scoring once during the game. Brayton Bowen showcased his plate discipline by drawing three walks and crossing the plate once.
GAME 2 | UIndy 4, Davenport 5
The Panthers jumped on top with an early two-run lead in the first inning, and held the Hounds scoreless until Mason earned an RBI, bringing in Joey Humphrey off a sacrifice fly in the bottom of the third.
UIndy would even the scoring in the next inning when Austin Pokley was driven in by Maddux Bach. Davenport took the lead back their next at bat when Travis Liford made his way home off a passed ball.
The Hounds saw a surge in the sixth inning, starting with a Solen Munson double to left center to bring Duran home. UIndy was able to take the lead when Bach drove Smock back to the plate with a single to left field.
The 4-3 lead stood until the final inning, when the Panthers were able to gain two runs, and the Hounds were unable to find an answer, closing the game with a 5-4 final score in favor of Davenport.
Ayden Tran delivered a strong performance for the Greyhounds, pitching 7 innings and striking out six batters, while Drake Downing recorded three K's in three innings pitched.
UP NEXT
The Hounds will travel to Springfield, Mo. to face Washburn and two conference opponents in Drury and Missouri S&T, facing the Ichabods first in the four-game weekend on Friday Feb.27 at noon.
