VANCOUVER, WA - Clark College turned a competitive doubleheader into a statement performance on May 2 at Kindsfather Field, rallying late to win game one before erupting offensively in a dominant 19–5 victory over Centralia in the nightcap.
After edging out an 8–7 win in the opener, the Penguins carried that momentum straight into game two—though not without an early test. Centralia jumped out to a 4–0 lead, highlighted by a first-inning surge and a solo home run from Mitchell Rowe in the second. But that early advantage quickly disappeared as Clark flipped the game on its head in a decisive second inning.
Taking full advantage of defensive miscues, the Penguins scored six runs in the frame despite recording just two hits. Patience at the plate and relentless pressure forced errors and opened the door for a momentum-shifting rally. By the end of the inning, Clark had turned a four-run deficit into a 6–4 lead—and they were just getting started.
Clark added another run in the third before delivering the knockout blow in the fourth. Taddeo Ituarte sparked the inning with a two-run single, and moments later, Lucas Tiernan crushed a grand slam to blow the game wide open, pushing the lead to 13–5. The Penguins sent a clear message with the seven-run inning, showcasing both power and depth throughout the lineup.
The offensive onslaught continued in the fifth, where Clark plated five more runs to extend the lead to 19–5. Nearly every spot in the lineup contributed, with Tiernan finishing with four RBIs, Ituarte driving in three, and Kobin Mullins and Caden Taylor adding two RBIs each. Rylan Taguchi crossed the plate four times, while the team drew eight walks and capitalized on four Centralia errors.
While the offense stole the spotlight, Garrett Maunu delivered a strong and steady outing on the mound. The right-hander went the distance, striking out 12 while allowing five runs on 11 hits. After surrendering early runs, Maunu settled in and controlled the game, preventing Centralia from mounting any comeback.
In total, Clark scored 27 runs across the doubleheader, combining timely hitting in game one with an explosive, all-around performance in game two. The sweep not only improved their record but underscored the team's ability to respond to adversity, apply pressure, and finish strong.
From a late-inning escape in the opener to a runaway victory in the finale, Clark College showcased the kind of complete effort that can define a season.
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