Game 1
Albany, OR – The Linn-Benton Roadrunners opened their 2025 season with a strong performance, securing a 5-3 victory over Clark College at Dick McClain Field on Tuesday afternoon. A three-run third inning proved to be the difference as the Roadrunners held off a late push from the Penguins.
Key Innings Decide the Outcome
After a scoreless first inning, Linn-Benton struck first in the second, plating two runs to grab an early lead. They added three more in the third, taking advantage of timely hitting and Clark miscues to build a 5-1 advantage.
Clark responded with single runs in the third and fifth innings but struggled to capitalize on additional opportunities, leaving nine runners on base.
Pitching Holds the Lead
Linn-Benton's pitching staff kept the Penguins' offense in check, with starter N. Dewey working efficiently through his outing. He tossed 5.2 innings, allowing three runs on five hits while striking out six. Relievers W. Connally and E. Corey shut the door, with Corey earning the save.
On the other side, Clark's starter Taylor Langworthy had a rough outing, lasting 2.2 innings while surrendering five runs on six hits. The bullpen stabilized things, with Kenneth Hall providing two scoreless innings of relief, but the early deficit was too much to overcome.
Offensive Highlights
- Linn-Benton: C. Boyd led the way, going 1-for-3 with a triple and a run scored. J. Jaha and J. Holmes each added an RBI to contribute to the balanced offensive attack.
- Clark: Landon Criste had a solid game, collecting two hits, including a double, and scoring twice. Kobin Mullins drove in two runs but was caught stealing in a key moment.
Game 2
The Linn-Benton Roadrunners completed a doubleheader sweep over Clark College with a hard-fought 8-7 victory in the second game of the day at Dick McClain Field. Despite an early surge from the Penguins, Linn-Benton's steady offense and strong relief pitching helped secure the win.
Clark Jumps Out Early
Clark wasted no time taking control, erupting for four runs in the second inning to grab an early lead. They added a run in the fifth and two more in the sixth to stay competitive, but Linn-Benton responded with consistent scoring throughout the middle innings.
The Roadrunners put up three runs in both the third and fourth innings, chipping away at Clark's lead before pulling ahead for good with additional runs in the fifth and sixth.
Key Performers
- Linn-Benton: Shortstop B. Starr led the offense with three hits, including a double, and drove in two runs. J. Dodge contributed on both sides of the ball, securing the win in relief while also adding a crucial at-bat.
- Clark: Trevin Long went 1-for-2 with an RBI and two walks, while Kaiden Hernandez reached base three times and stole a base.
Pitching Seals the Win
Clark's pitching staff struggled with command, issuing nine walks, which helped Linn-Benton manufacture runs despite recording just four hits. For the Roadrunners, R. Rivers started but lasted only two innings, allowing four runs. J. Dodge and the bullpen held Clark at bay in the later innings, with Dodge earning the win in relief.
With the sweep, Linn-Benton improves to 2-0, while Clark drops to 0-2 to start the season. The Penguins will look to rebound in their next matchup, Saturday, February 22 at Clackamas.
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