Carolina University’s baseball team secured a series win over IU Columbus after sweeping a doubleheader on Saturday, February 14 at Mando Field in Mocksville, North Carolina. The victories followed a split in Friday’s games and gave the Bruins momentum heading into their next matchup.
In the first game, Carolina defeated IU Columbus 4-0. The Bruins scored two runs in the opening inning and added to their lead with additional runs in the third and sixth innings. Danny Gonzalez hit a solo home run, while Leland Brown and Miles Tavarez contributed with key RBIs. Starting pitcher Paxton Tucker earned the win by throwing five scoreless innings, striking out eight batters and allowing only two hits. Relievers Alex Prevost and Abraham Leal combined to preserve the shutout, holding IU Columbus to just three hits overall.
The second game saw Carolina’s offense surge for a 12-7 victory. Despite falling behind early, the Bruins responded with six runs in the third inning to take control. Chandler Smithart led with a home run and four RBIs; Chase Lee drove in three runs and had multiple extra-base hits as part of an 11-hit performance from the team. Tanner Buteau picked up the win in relief as Carolina’s pitching staff managed to contain IU Columbus’ late rally attempts.
Associate Head Coach Logan Conklin commented on his team’s effort: “I’m proud of the way our guys bounced back and competed today. After splitting yesterday, it was important for us to come out focused and finish the series strong. We got quality innings on the mound, played solid defense, and had timely hits up and down the lineup. It’s a great step forward for this group as we continue to grow early in the season.”
With these wins, Carolina takes both conference and non-conference games seriously throughout its season schedule as outlined on its official website. The team is based in Bexley, Ohio, participates within NCAA Division III guidelines, belongs to the Ohio Athletic Conference (source), and promotes integration of academics with athletics for student-athletes.
The Bruins will play again on Tuesday, February 17 when they host Averett University at Mando Field with first pitch scheduled for 3:00 p.m.
