WINFIELD, Kan. — Hesston College scored early and often to hold off a late push from Southwestern College in a 13–9 win Tuesday afternoon at Broadway Sports Complex.
Hesston jumped out to a 6–0 lead through the first two innings and built a commanding lead midway through the game before Southwestern mounted several rallies. The Moundbuilders plated three runs in the fourth, added one in the sixth, and scored five runs over the final three innings, but were unable to complete the comeback.
Southwestern finished with nine runs on nine hits, led by Raisean Dorsey, who went 3-for-5 with two runs scored and an RBI. Koda Larsen provided a spark offensively with a three-run home run, while Layton Simon and Mitch Meinen each scored and drove in runs as part of the late surge.
Hesston collected 13 runs on eight hits and capitalized on defensive miscues, taking advantage of four Southwestern errors. RJ Cruz scored five runs and reached base five times, while Federico Moran and Trentis Lane each drove in two runs for the Larks. Hesston also drew 11 walks and stole multiple bases to keep pressure on the Southwestern pitching staff.
Southwestern threatened in the eighth inning with a two-run frame that cut the deficit to four, but Hesston shut the door in the ninth to secure the win.
The Moundbuilders will look to bounce back as they will host Avila University on Friday, February 13th to kick off a three-game home stand against the Eagles stretching through Saturday. First pitch is scheduled for 2:00 PM on Friday at Broadway Sports Complex.
