MANKATO, Minn. — Minnesota State split its Sunday doubleheader against Minnesota Crookston at Bowyer Field, falling 7–2 in game one before bouncing back with a 4–2 victory in game two. The Mavericks now sit at 30-9 overall and 22-4 in NSIC play.

Game 1 – Minnesota State 2, Minnesota Crookston 7

Minnesota State was unable to overcome a five-run sixth inning by Minnesota Crookston, which proved to be the difference in a 7–2 loss.

MSU plated its only runs in the seventh inning, highlighted by Eric Nuno's two-run home run. Ethan Bowers reached base twice with two walks and came around to score, while Charlie Schau added a hit.

On the mound, Louis Magers threw 5 1/3 innings with five strikeouts but allowed four earned runs. Lucas Tolle and Ben Llewellyn combined for 1 2/3 innings of relief, giving up two runs (one earned) on two hits.

Game 2 – Minnesota State 4, Minnesota Crookston 2

The Mavericks responded in game two with a strong 4–2 win, fueled by a three-run first inning and dominant pitching.

Jake Berkland sparked the early rally with a walk and stolen base before scoring on Cole Yearsley's RBI single. Magers followed with an RBI triple, and Bowers added an RBI single to give MSU a 3–1 lead after one.

Minnesota State added an insurance run in the fourth inning, as Logan Miller's sacrifice bunt brought home Eric Nuno. Charlie Schau contributed two hits, including a double, to pace the offense.

Daniel Zang delivered a standout performance, striking out 10 batters over seven innings while allowing just two runs on four hits to earn his fifth win of the season. Ben Irsfeld closed the door with two scoreless innings, recording his third save.

"I liked how we responded in game two," said head coach Matt Magers. "Daniel Zang did a great job pitching."

Minnesota State will return to action on Wednesday, April 22, traveling to Winona, Minn., to take on Winona State at 1:30 p.m. at Loughrey Field.