In a dominant weekend at Frank Loria Memorial Field in Nutter Fort, WV, the Salem University baseball team swept their series against Clarion University, fueled by an explosive offense and steady pitching.

Salem Explodes for 19 Runs Opener (Feb 20)

Salem University opened the series with a resounding 19-5 victory over Clarion. The Tigers took control early, scoring two runs in the first inning on RBI singles by Reese Rinna and Brandon Hoftijzer. They added three more in the second and two in both the third and fourth innings, including a two-run home run from Hoftijzer in the fourth.

The Tigers put the game completely out of reach with a massive nine-run eighth inning. Highlights of the frame included a grand slam by Reese Rinna and an RBI hit-by-pitch from Aaron Forbes. Conor Thiele earned the win on the mound, pitching five innings and allowing three runs.

Tigers Secure Doubleheader Sweep (Feb 21)

Salem continued its winning streak the following day, sweeping a doubleheader to improve to 5-3 on the season.

• Game 1: Salem 6, Clarion 1 In the first game of the twin bill, Salem used the long ball to secure a 6-1 win. Cody Thomas provided the early spark with a two-run home run in the bottom of the first inning. The Tigers broke the game open in the fourth with three more runs, highlighted by a solo blast from Chase Clemons. Eric Kovach earned the win, striking out five over four innings, while Richie Preston secured the save with three scoreless frames.

• Game 2: Salem 7, Clarion 4 The series finale saw Salem jump out to another fast start, plating five runs in the bottom of the first inning. After Clarion took a brief lead on a solo home run, the Tigers responded immediately; Reese Rinna and Brandon Hoftijzer each delivered RBI doubles in the opening frame to regain a 5-1 lead.

  Clarion attempted a late comeback, but Salem added two insurance runs in the fifth to maintain control. Relief pitcher Aiden Eddy was credited with the win, and Andrew George closed out the ninth to earn the save.