The Tigers swept their opening three-game series against the Southwestern Pirates to kick off the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) schedule, including a pair of Saturday double-header victories on March 19. The Tigers came from behind in all three games, allowing the opening runs of every game throughout the weekend. However, they came back strong with big scores later in the game, including the game on Friday, March 18 that saw an astounding eight runs over the sixth and seventh innings combined for the Tigers. Friday’s game in particular was exhilarating, with a final score of 13-11 in favor of Trinity.

A slight chill in the air didn’t freeze the spirits of either side, as both Trinity and Southwestern supporters were out in full force. After giving up an early run, Trinity scored two in the third inning to take the lead. However, Southwestern had a three-run fourth and a two-run fifth (including a solo home run) to take a huge 6-2 lead entering the bottom of the fifth. The Tigers returned with a massive response, scoring three runs in the bottom of the fifth.

The Pirates made the best of their situation in the sixth, equalizing with a three-run inning of their own thanks to batters taking advantage of some well-timed walks. It would be the last time Southwestern scored until the eighth inning, as Trinity lit up the scoreboard shortly afterward.

The Tigers scored four in the bottom of a sixth inning that was opened by junior utility player Ezra Gore’s solo home run. Trinity ended the frame with the game tied at 9-9, and effective pitching by Trinity kept the score even heading into the bottom of the seventh. Trinity scored their last runs of the day in the seventh inning, bringing in four runs thanks to pitching mistakes by the Pirates, giving Trinity an excellent position on the bases.

Though Southwestern made an attempt to close in towards the end of the day, it wasn’t enough, as Trinity finished with a 13-11 victory, allowing just one run in each of the last two innings. Trinity advanced to 8-5 following the big win over Southwestern, who has been a long-time rival of Trinity in almost every sport. Meanwhile, the Pirates saw their record fall to 7-6.

Junior left-handed pitcher Cam Sheets earned the win for Trinity, while Southwestern pitcher Trey Schwartz was credited the loss. Ezra Gore, junior first baseman MJ Metz,, junior designated hitter Brian Schaub, senior infielder Jack Wisniewski and sophomore center fielder Jack Peterson all led the Tigers with two hits apiece in the Friday victory, contributing to the big win.

Saturday’s games on March 19 saw two consecutive wins for the Tigers in the double-header, ending the three-game series with a sweep. The first game was a 9-4 victory, while, in the second, Trinity allowed just one extra run for a 9-5 win.
A four-run fourth inning in both games powered the Tigers’ victory charge. Game one also saw two home runs for the Tigers — one from senior catcher Tyler Pettit and one from sophomore infielder Colt Harris. Junior starting pitcher Samuel Conte was credited with the win (1-1) after allowing just two hits in six innings (6.0 IP, 2 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 3 BB, 9 SO, 1 HR).

In game 2, sophomore pitcher Harrison Durow earned the victory (2-0) after closing out the middle innings (3.0 IP, 1 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 3 BB, 5 SO). Junior designated hitter Nathan Braulick went 3/3, scoring on two runs and bringing in an RBI of his own to help the Tigers.

Trinity returns home on Saturday, April 2, when they will take on conference opponent the University of Dallas in a double-header, followed by a Sunday afternoon game. In the meantime, they’re hitting the road for five consecutive games, including another conference series at Centenary College on March 25 and 26.