GU Falls in Doubleheader to Peru State Despite Offensive Production in Opener

LAMONI, Iowa — The Graceland University baseball team dropped both games of a conference doubleheader to Peru State College on April 19 at Chase Stadium, falling 9-4 in game one and 13-1 in game two. Graceland moves to 10-31 overall (4-9 HAAC), while Peru State improves to 13-28 overall (6-7 HAAC).

In the opener, Graceland recorded 11 hits, but early run production from Peru State proved decisive. The Bobcats plated three runs in the second inning and added insurance in the sixth and seventh frames, capitalizing on timely base hits and situational execution .

Darius Sparks paced the Yellowjackets offensively, going 2-for-4 with a triple and two runs scored, while Rafael Calcano finished 2-for-4 with an RBI and stolen base. Gabriel Perez also added a multi-hit effort, contributing two base hits in the loss. Graceland manufactured runs late, including a sacrifice fly from Josh Tomas and an RBI single by Jayden Gilbert in the seventh, but left 10 runners on base .

On the mound, Cohen Kelsey worked 6.0 innings, allowing six earned runs while recording five strikeouts. Peru State's offense was led by Xavier Solla, who drove in three runs on three hits, and Jose Cotto, who added two RBIs.

In game two, Peru State broke open a close contest with a six-run sixth inning, turning a 3-1 game into a decisive margin. Graceland was limited to five hits and struck out nine times, struggling to generate consistent offensive pressure .

Beno Olmeda led the Yellowjackets at the plate, going 2-for-3, while Drake Matney scored the lone run and added a hit. Ryan Spencer drove in Graceland's only run on a sacrifice fly in the third inning. On the mound, Gabriel Perez struck out eight over 5.1 innings, but defensive miscues and extra-base hits fueled Peru State's late surge .

Peru State was powered by Sam Dunn, who finished with five RBIs, and Xavier Solla, who scored four runs, highlighting a balanced offensive effort.

"We had opportunities in both games but didn't execute consistently enough. We need to be sharper defensively and find ways to get key outs and timely hits."

Graceland returns to action Friday, April 24, hosting Mount Mercy University in a conference doubleheader. First pitch is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. CDT, followed by game two at 3:30 p.m. CDT at Chase Stadium in Lamoni, Iowa.

For more information on Graceland baseball and all Yellowjacket athletics, visit GUjackets.com.