COUGARS OUTSLUG MOTLOW STATE 9–7 IN ROAD WIN
| Final | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | R | H | E |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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2 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 9 | 11 | 2 |
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0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 7 | 13 | 1 |
TULLAHOMA, Tenn. — Cleveland State Community College used power throughout the lineup and a strong start on the mound to earn a 9–7 victory over Motlow State Community College on Thursday afternoon at Driver Baseball.
The Cougars jumped out early with two runs in the first inning and never trailed, finishing with 11 hits, including three home runs, to improve to 16–6 overall and 9–1 in conference play.
Nolan Sergeant continued his standout season at the plate, going 3-for-4 with three runs scored, a home run, two RBIs, a walk, and a stolen base. Sergeant's two-run homer provided momentum and set the tone offensively for Cleveland State.
Behind him, Evan Leonard delivered another big day, finishing 2-for-4 with a double, a home run, two RBIs, and two runs scored while also handling the pitching staff defensively from behind the plate. Hank Adams added to the power display with a solo home run, finishing 1-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored.
The middle of the order continued to produce as Nelson McKnight went 2-for-5 with two doubles and an RBI, while Jaxon Humble scored two runs and reached base with a hit. Kwade Carver chipped in with a hit and solid defense at third base, and Owen Phillips reached base twice with a hit and a walk. Nate Severance added a run from the bottom of the order.
On the mound, Max Owens delivered a strong start, earning the win after going 7.0 innings, allowing four runs (two earned) while striking out 11 and walking none. Owens consistently worked ahead in the count and limited damage despite Motlow State recording 10 hits against him.
Motlow State mounted pressure late, but Cleveland State's bullpen answered. Anthony Biondo worked through traffic in the eighth inning, and Torrey Robinson shut the door in the ninth to earn the save.
Head Coach Aaron Bryant credited his team's balance and toughness after the win.
"We got contributions up and down the lineup and some big swings at important moments," Bryant said. "Max gave us a huge start on the road, and our guys stayed composed late. That's a good team win against a conference opponent."
The Cougars will look to build on Thursday's win as the series concludes Friday with a doubleheader beginning at noon (CT) at Motlow State.
