LCC baseball team splits doubleheader

By Michael Leek
Sports Editor

The LCC baseball team split a pair of games against Bryant and Stratton Ohio on Friday, March 15. LCC lost the first game in a close nine-inning finish, 7-6, but dominated the second game, winning in seven innings, 12-0.

These games moved the Stars record to 11-7 on the season as they approach their home opener for this season.

In the first game against Bryant, LCC’s starting pitcher was freshman Easton Remick. He pitched four innings and recorded six strikeouts before sophomore relief pitcher Blake Gedrich was brought in.

Freshman left fielder Jack Bakus led the Stars offense with three hits and a steal.

In the second game LCC started strong, recording two runs in the first inning. In the fourth inning, LCC scored seven runs, giving the Stars an 11-0 lead.

Freshman pitcher Oliver Raczynski was the starting pitcher for the Stars, pitching six innings, recording 12 strikeouts, and giving up two hits.

The Stars' offense was on fire with Bakus leading the way. He had four hits, three RBIs and a home run. Freshman infielder Conner Prahl also hit a home run and had four RBIs on two hits.

LCC Head Coach Steven Cutter said the second game was a good representation of how the team has to play to excel.

“The team gives itself great chances to win when we can limit the big innings on defense and bring great energy throughout the game,” Cutter said.

The Stars have been playing road games this whole season. Freshman pitcher Drew Nurenberg said they have to stay physically and mentally focused while playing away from home.

“On the road, we care for our bodies by hydrating, eating and sleeping often,” Nurenberg said. “We prepare our minds with processes like, ‘what’s important now?’ to be focused and ready for practice or competition.”

Leading into the first home game of the season, Cutter said improving on weak points consistently will be the key for success.

“Now it is time to double down on things that we need to work on,” Cutter said. “This makes it challenging as we have many more games than practices. We are hitting well and pitching well right now, but we are still looking for more consistency in the little things of the game.”

The home opener for the Stars will be on Tuesday, March 19, at 2 p.m. against Lake Michigan College at Municipal Park on Lansing’s east side.

Nurenberg said the team is excited to play at home and is looking forward to finally having fans at the game.

“We’re focused on creating an uncommon atmosphere and having fun,” Nurenberg said. “When we play to our standard and believe in each other, we win.”