Bantam Baseball Wins Series Against Blue Claws Collegiate

Game 1:

In a commanding performance on February 8, 2025, the USC Union Bantams overwhelmed Blue Claws Collegiate with a decisive 13-0 victory. The game, held at USC Union’s home field, showcased the Bantams’ offensive prowess and pitching superiority, leaving Blue Claws struggling to find their footing.

From the outset, USC Union set the tone with a robust first inning, scoring four runs. Aiden Talarico was instrumental, driving in Josh Jackson with a single. The inning continued with a series of walks and a wild pitch that allowed Mason Elrod and Mikey Scott to cross the plate. Justin Skorupski‘s patience at the plate forced another walk, bringing in Hayden Friend for the fourth run.

The Bantams continued their relentless attack in the second inning, as Elrod’s double brought Talarico home, extending the lead to 5-0. The third inning saw Skorupski doubling to score Eyon Everett, followed by a costly error by Blue Claws’ shortstop, which allowed Skorupski to score. Talarico then delivered a crushing blow with a two-run homer, further widening the gap.

USC Union’s dominance was unyielding in the fourth inning, capitalizing on defensive lapses by Blue Claws. A passed ball allowed Jaedon Goodwin to score, while Jackson’s sacrifice fly brought in Everett. More errors and a solid single by Elrod sealed the inning with four more runs, concluding the scoring spree at 13-0.

The Bantams’ pitching staff was equally impressive, with Carson Bay, Trevor Merck, and Will Wesley combining for a one-hit shutout. Bay earned the win with two innings of work, striking out four. Merck and Wesley followed suit, maintaining the clean sheet and stifling any potential Blue Claws’ rally.

Blue Claws Collegiate struggled offensively, managing only one hit throughout the game, courtesy of their left fielder. Their pitching staff couldn’t contain the Bantams’ bats, conceding 13 runs on eight hits and issuing nine walks.

USC Union’s victory was a testament to their balanced attack and disciplined pitching, setting a high standard for their season. 

Game 2:

In a commanding display of baseball prowess, the USC Union Bantams overwhelmed the Blue Claws Collegiate with a decisive 10-0 win on February 8, 2025. The game, held at the Bantams’ home field, showcased the Bantams’ offensive strength and pitching prowess, leaving the Blue Claws struggling to find a foothold.

The Bantams set the tone early, with a massive second inning that saw them score eight runs, effectively sealing the fate of the game. Mikey Scott was the standout performer, hitting two home runs in the second inning alone, contributing four RBIs to the team’s tally. His first homer was a solo shot to center field, and his second was a three-run blast to left field, driving in Markus Kirksey and Mason Elrod.

Adding to the Bantams’ offensive onslaught, Aiden Talarico and Markus Kirksey each contributed with crucial hits. Talarico’s single brought home two runs, while Kirksey’s double added another to the scoreboard. Hayden Friend and Justin Skorupski also played pivotal roles, each driving in a run to further extend the Bantams’ lead.

On the mound, the Bantams’ pitching staff was equally impressive. Blake Baldwin earned the win with a strong performance, pitching two innings and allowing just two hits while striking out five. The Bantams’ bullpen continued the trend, with Logan Kolesha, Dargan Chase, Austin Brown, Braeden Campman, and Josh Smith combining to shut down the Blue Claws’ offense, allowing only four hits in total and striking out eight batters.

The Blue Claws Collegiate struggled to generate any offensive momentum, managing only four hits throughout the game. Their pitchers faced a relentless Bantams lineup, with their starter giving up eight runs in just 1.2 innings. Despite a valiant effort from their bullpen, the damage had already been done.

Overall, the USC Union Bantams’ comprehensive victory highlighted their dominance on both sides of the field, setting a high standard for the rest of their season. As they continue their campaign, the Bantams will look to build on this performance and maintain their winning ways.