Cats and Phoenix Split Twin Bill

LEBANON, Tenn. The Bethel University Wildcats edged out the Cumberland Phoenix 7-6 in game one of their doubleheader Saturday afternoon in Lebanon.

Zach Griffith was a key player, driving in two runs including a critical two-RBI double during the second inning that ignited a five-run outburst. This inning proved crucial in setting the tone for the remainder of the contest. Jose Olmeda and Ivan Vega were also instrumental, contributing with vital RBIs that bolstered the team's offense. Additionally, Jose Diego Ramos and Luis Aristud added to the scoring, enabling the Cats to win. Walker Ward picked up his fourth win of the year.

Bethel outhit CU 8-4.

In game two, the Phoenix turned the tables on the Cats, winning 8-6.

Bethel struck first in the top of the first inning when Jared Hall singled, advanced on a bunt, and eventually scored on an RBI single down the left field line by Adriel Vega. Cumberland quickly answered in the bottom half of the inning, tying the game at 1-1.

CU would take a 4-1 lead after three innings.

Bethel roared back in the fourth. Griffith's infield single brought Adriel Vega home. Aristud followed with a triple to right field, scoring Griffith. Aristud then came home on a throwing error by Cumberland's third baseman, tying the game 4-4.

Cumberland responded immediately in the bottom of the fourth, reclaiming the lead 6-4.

Bethel's Jack Beck had an RBI in the fifth. Hall tied the game in the sixth with an RBI single.

Reese Ellison suffered the Wildcat loss.

Cumberland improved to 24-7-1 overall and 4-2 in the MSC. Bethel dropped to 14-11 and 2-3.

Bethel returns to action Friday and Saturday traveling to the University of the Cumberlands for action on Friday and Saturday.