A doubleheader split Monday following Saturday’s big win over San Diego Christian College brings the Eagles into a tie for third place in the Golden State Athletic Conference. At 8-10 in the conference and 16-12 overall, the Eagles are poised to finish the season strong and aim for a berth in the NAIA playoffs.
The Hawks jumped out to an early lead in game one of Monday’s doubleheader, scoring once on a groundout in the second inning. The Eagles retaliated with one of their own in the third inning when junior infielder David McNeill scored on an error. It was all Hawks from then on.
San Diego Christian went on to score eight more runs combined in innings five and six en route to a 9-1 blowout over Biola. San Diego Christian’s Gilbert Vierra had quite a game as the designated hitter went 3-for-5 with three RBIs. Hawks starter Nick Green was masterful across eight innings, giving up just five hits and fanning six without allowing an earned run.
Junior outfielder Vince Lawrence and senior center fielder Benji Sutherland were the bright spots for Biola with two hits apiece. Sutherland also added his fifth stolen base of the season.
Biola freshman starter Josh Staumont got roughed up early as pitch location proved to be a problem. Despite only giving up one earned run in 4.2 innings, the righty walked five, issued a wild pitch and at one point had thrown three-ball counts to four straight San Diego Christian hitters.
Oaks, Slater shine in game-two win
In game two, the Eagles got on the board early, taking a two-run lead in the third inning — a lead they never relinquished.
Biola’s starter freshman Trevor Oaks earned his second win of the year — his first GSAC win and first win since Feb. 14 at Azusa Pacific University — while going 6.2 innings and giving three runs on three hits.
“I was great to get my first GSAC win,” Oaks said. “We really needed this game and I was excited to do my part.”
Oaks’ nine strikeouts ups his season total to 52, good enough for second in the NAIA.
Sophomore right fielder Paul Slater raised his batting average to .368 with a 3-for-4 day. He scored a run and added an RBI in the process.
