MANKATO, Minn. — Minnesota State Mavericks (37-12, 29-7 NSIC) fell 3–2 to the Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs (19-31, 18-20 NSIC) on Saturday at Bowyer Field. Despite a two-run fourth inning, the Mavericks couldn't overcome a sixth-inning push from UMD.
Minnesota Duluth took control in the sixth, scoring the go-ahead runs on a string of timely hits and a sacrifice fly. A single by Kliber, followed by hits from Anthony and Richardson, evened the score. After a hit-by-pitch loaded the bases, Myers lifted a sacrifice fly to bring home the eventual game-winning run.
Minnesota State grabbed the early advantage in the fourth inning. Brandon Vlcko drew a walk and moved to second on a sacrifice bunt by Charlie Schau. Logan Miller drove him in with a single to center, and Ethan Bowers followed with a base hit to load the bases. Jake Berkland then grounded out to shortstop, scoring Miller to give MSU a 2–1 lead.
The Mavericks threatened late but couldn't capitalize. Owen Sikkink reached third in the seventh but was stranded, and MSU left two runners on in the eighth following a fielder's choice and a groundout.
Cale Haugen turned in a strong start, pitching five innings while allowing just two hits and one earned run, striking out four on 62 pitches (43 strikes). Sam George took the loss in relief, giving up two runs on three hits in one-third of an inning. Ben Irsfeld provided stability out of the bullpen, tossing 3 2/3 scoreless innings while allowing two hits and striking out two.
Miller led the Mavericks offensively with two hits and an RBI, while Vlcko reached base three times, scoring once and drawing two walks.
Minnesota State returns to action Wednesday, May 6, traveling to Sioux Falls, S.D. for the NSIC Tournament.
