Yellowjackets Explode for 15 Runs to Earn Split with Peru State
LAMONI, Iowa — Graceland University baseball produced a 15-run offensive output in game one to earn a split against Peru State College on April 18 at Chase Stadium, defeating the Bobcats 15-8 before falling 16-3 in the nightcap. The Yellowjackets combined timely extra-base hits and run production with situational execution to secure the opening win.
In game one, Graceland (9-30, 2-14 Heart) recorded 14 hits and 15 RBIs, capitalizing on four Peru State errors to generate sustained offensive pressure. According to the box score on page 1 , Gabriel Perez led the lineup, going 3-for-4 with a home run and five RBIs, including a three-run shot in the sixth inning that extended the lead. Drake Matney added a three-run home run and finished with four RBIs, while Carson Chiprez contributed two hits and two RBIs from the lower third of the order.
Graceland's offense utilized aggressive baserunning and situational hitting, plating runs in five separate innings. The Yellowjackets scored four runs in the second inning and added a five-run sixth inning, highlighted by Perez's home run and multiple RBI singles.
On the mound, Jacob Abernathey (1-0) earned the win, allowing five earned runs over three innings while working through early traffic. The bullpen provided key innings, as noted on page 2 , with Victor Leonardo recording the save after two innings of relief, limiting Peru State's late scoring opportunities.
Peru State (11-27, 5-7 Heart) was led offensively by Jaled Mercader, who collected two hits and three RBIs, while Xavier Solla added two RBIs. Despite recording 10 hits, the Bobcats were unable to match Graceland's run production in the middle innings.
Game two shifted momentum, as Peru State (11-28, 7-8 Heart) posted 20 hits in a 16-3 victory, taking advantage of early scoring and continued offensive pressure. According to the box score on page 1 , Wrigley Strong delivered a standout performance with two home runs and four RBIs, while Jose Cotto added six RBIs on three hits, including multiple extra-base hits.
Graceland (10-30, 4-14 Heart) managed seven hits in the nightcap, highlighted by Ryan Spencer's 3-for-4 performance with an RBI, while Josh Tomas contributed a sacrifice fly and RBI. However, the Yellowjackets were limited in run production, stranding multiple baserunners and committing three errors defensively.
On the mound, Johanno Perdomo took the loss, allowing eight runs in three innings, while the pitching staff surrendered 16 runs on 20 hits overall.
Head coach Brad Payne addressed the split following the doubleheader.
"We executed offensively in the first game with quality at-bats and timely extra-base hits," Payne said. "Our lineup stayed aggressive and produced runs in multiple innings. In the second game, we didn't control the strike zone on the mound, and Peru State capitalized. We need to improve consistency across both sides."
Graceland returns to action April 19 with a home doubleheader against Peru State at Chase Stadium in Lamoni, Iowa. First pitch is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. CDT, followed by game two at 3:30 p.m. CDT.
For more information on Graceland baseball and all of Graceland athletics, visit GUjackets.com.