Wildcats Drop Series Opener to Olivet Nazarene University

MCKENZIE, Tenn. - The Bethel University baseball team opened its weekend series with a tough 5-0 setback to Olivet Nazarene University on Friday afternoon at the Kahlden Complex (Wildcat Park).

Despite outhitting the Tigers 7-4, the Wildcats (1-5) were unable to capitalize on scoring opportunities, stranding six runners, and running into a dominant pitching performance from Olivet's Tyler Snoreck.

Bethel starter Walker Ward was outstanding through six innings, keeping the contest scoreless while allowing just one hit and striking out 12. Ward worked around three walks and consistently got ahead in the count, giving the Wildcats a chance to strike first.

The game turned in the seventh inning. After Ward exited, Olivet Nazarene (1-8) used three hits and a walk to plate four runs in the frame. Alex Seaton delivered a two-RBI blow to break the scoreless tie, and the Tigers added to their advantage with timely execution on the basepaths. Caleb Kendregan, who reached base four times and swiped two bags, later came around to score as Olivet seized control.

The Tigers added an insurance run in the eighth, taking advantage of another walk and pushing their lead to 5-0.

Offensively, Bethel put together several solid at-bats but couldn't find the big hit. CJ Lattimore led the Wildcats with two hits, while Adriel Vega recorded a pair of hits including a double. Garrett Taylor, Hayden Hixson, and Kaidan Ingram each added a base knock.

Bethel threatened in multiple innings but was turned away each time, as Snoreck scattered seven hits over a complete-game shutout, striking out 11 and walking just one.

Evan Cardwell was steady behind the plate with 13 putouts, and the Wildcats' defense committed no errors on the afternoon.

The two teams will continue the series tomorrow at Wildcat Park as Bethel looks to bounce back and even the set. The doubleheader begins at noon.