Graceland Falls in Doubleheader to Oklahoma Wesleyan in Kansas City
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Graceland University baseball team dropped both games of a doubleheader to Oklahoma Wesleyan on April 11, falling 12-0 in game one and 9-2 in game two at Avila University.
Graceland entered the matchup with a 6-22 overall record and 3-13 in conference play, while Oklahoma Wesleyan improved to 32-8 overall and 14-2 in conference competition following the sweep.
In game one, Oklahoma Wesleyan utilized a seven-run third inning to establish control, capitalizing on multiple base hits and run-producing at-bats. The Eagles added runs in the fourth and fifth innings, including a two-run home run, to extend the margin.
Graceland was limited to two hits in the contest, with Darius Sparks and Gabriel Perez each recording base hits. The Yellowjackets drew three walks but were unable to advance runners into scoring position consistently, finishing with 11 strikeouts and no runs across seven innings.
On the mound, Jacob Abernathey allowed seven earned runs in 2.2 innings, while the bullpen combined for four innings of relief. Defensively, Graceland recorded one error in the game.
Game two featured improved production early, as Graceland opened the scoring in the third inning on an RBI sequence that plated Ashtyn Sims. The Yellowjackets added a second run in the seventh inning, with Hagen Wilmes delivering an RBI single to tie the game at 2-2.
However, Oklahoma Wesleyan responded with a three-run eighth inning and a four-run ninth inning, using extra-base hits and situational hitting to regain control. The Eagles totaled 11 hits, including three home runs, to secure the 9-2 decision.
Rafael Calcano led Graceland at the plate in game two, going 2-for-3 with an RBI, while Wilmes added a hit and RBI. The Yellowjackets finished with five hits and four walks but stranded multiple baserunners.
Starting pitcher Johanno Perdomo recorded six innings, allowing two earned runs on four hits, keeping Graceland within reach through the middle innings. The bullpen allowed seven runs over the final three innings.
Head coach Brad Payne emphasized execution in key innings and situational pitching following the doubleheader.
"We need to be more efficient in run prevention innings and execute with runners on base," Payne said. "Our pitching kept us competitive in stretches, but we have to limit big innings and produce consistently at the plate."
UP NEXT
Graceland returns to action April 14 with a conference doubleheader against Grand View. The Yellowjackets will play at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. at Lou Yacinich Field in Des Moines, Iowa.
For more information on Graceland baseball and all of Graceland athletics, visit GUjackets.com.