The Scots had a clean sweep in their doubleheader against Grinnell on Saturday, April 25th. The Scots took the first game 25-10, ending in the 7th inning and setting a school record for hits (29) and runs in a double header (44). The second game looked similar with a 23-9 score for Monmouth. The Scots are now fourth in the conference and face Lawerance away this weekend.
The Pioneers took an early lead with 4-0 in the top of the first off Senior pitcher Roy Ralston, but the Scots quickly recovered, ending the first inning with a 13-4 lead, including a grand slam by senior Clayton Matkovic. The Scots continued to lead despite a strong fight by the Pioneers. Senior Jace Wilkerson made his 9th home run of the season, and sophomore Zach Alumager earned the first of his career in the fifth and sixth innings, respectively. Freshman Owen Alfred received Ralston in the 5th inning, and junior Will Baumgartner finished the game.
The second game kept the energy high, with Wilkerson and Alumager both hitting another home run each in the first inning. Junior Ethan Zaayenga pitched for the start of the second game, relieved by senior Weslee Frame in the 6th, then by freshman Blake Sierens. Sophomore Hunter Wheat hit his first career home run at the bottom of the 6th, and the 5th of the day for the Fighting Scots.
Sunday’s game was not as lucky for the Scots, with Grinnell winning 15-4 in the 8th inning. Junior Brandon Coats started the game before being relieved by freshman Dane Keeven. Monmouth recovered in the 3rd inning, with 3 runs, including junior Eric Campen with his first career home run. Despite a tough fight by the fighting Scots, they were unable to finish the series with a perfect sweep.
