WINFIELD, Kan.  — Southwestern College (8-18, 4-15) jumped out to an early lead Friday afternoon, but York University (Neb.) (11-16,8-10), responded with consistent offense across the middle and late innings to take a 7–1 victory in the opener of a three-game conference series.

Junior designated hitter Brice Nittler got the Moundbuilders going in the first inning with a double to left-center and later came around to score on a fielder's choice. But that would be all the offense Southwestern could muster, as York starter Jaxon McCown held them to just two hits over six innings, striking out seven.

Sophomore catcher Preston Carrillo was the only Moundbuilder with multiple hits, finishing 2-for-4. Southwestern recorded just three hits total and left five runners on base.

On the mound, senior right-hander Micah Cleveland gave Southwestern a strong start, striking out seven over six innings while allowing two earned runs. Freshman reliever Jayden Hensley pitched the final three innings, surrendering four runs (three earned).

York was led by second baseman Andrew Grant, who went 3-for-5 with a triple and two RBIs. Center fielder Richie Romero added three hits, including two doubles, while right fielder Isaac Heck drove in two runs. The Panthers collected 15 hits and scored in six different innings, including four two-out RBIs.

The series continues on Saturday March 29, 2025. First pitch of the double header is at 12:00 PM at Broadway Sports Complex in WInfield, Kansas.