In the opening weekend of the conference play, the Charger baseball team went 1-3 in its games against the Trevecca Nazarene University Trojans March 15-16. 

After 17 games, the Chargers now have an overall record of 6-12. They are sitting at number one in fielding standings and having the most at bats in a conference game so far during their Tuesday doubleheader. 

“Our games over spring break didn’t go as we had hoped, unfortunately,” senior shortstop Aidan Brewer said. “The first three games were pretty tough losses but we were able to turn it around in game four and get a win.”

The Chargers lost the first doubleheader and the first game of the second doubleheader. The team was able to close the deficit a bit with 11 runs scored across the three games but not enough to take home those three wins. 

“We struggled both on the mound and at the plate this last week,” junior outfielder Lewis Beals said. “We need to execute pitches better on the mound, and make adjustments quicker at the plate. Overall, we just need to have a more aggressive and competitive mentality. We are all chomping at the bit to get going and get the bad taste of last week out of our mouth.”

In the final game, the Chargers took the lead in the third with five runs in the inning, including two home runs. In the bottom of the fourth, the team took a six-run lead, concluding the game 10-1. Zane Barnhart, the team’s top closer, pitched six innings with seven strikeouts, three walks, and only one earned run. Barnhart was named G-MAC Pitcher of The Week. 

“Zane Barnhart was a highlight for us this weekend,” head coach Tom Vessella said. “He pitched a very strong 6 innings for us and set the tone for the game. We were in a hole after losing the first three games and needed someone to step up and take control of the situation. It was a last-minute decision, and it ended up working out for us.”

The Chargers also played Grand Valley State University Lakers, losing 11-3. Sophomore first baseman Will Shannon opened the game with a homerun and 1-0 lead, but the Lakers pulled ahead for good at top of the fourth. Eight different pitchers appeared on the mound with sophomore pitcher Drew Erdei taking the loss. 

The Chargers will play Kentucky Wesleyan University this weekend, March 25-26, in a four game series.  

“Now all we can do is turn the page, and get ready for the rest of G-MAC play,” Vessella said.