Storm Baseball Drops Double Header to Linn-Benton

**Linn-Benton Triumphs Over Chemeketa in Extra Innings**

In a gripping extra-innings showdown on March 22, 2025, Linn-Benton emerged victorious over Chemeketa with a 4-2 triumph in the 12th inning.

The game began with Chemeketa taking an early lead in the first inning thanks to Jc. Klee's sacrifice fly, pushing W. Hooper across the plate. Linn-Benton responded in the third inning when C. Boyd's single allowed K. Lindstrom to tie the game. Chemeketa briefly regained the lead in their half of the third inning with a double from C. Cervantes, scoring B. Hubble.

The middle innings saw a steady performance from both sides' pitchers, with W. Rose of Chemeketa and B. McMullen of Linn-Benton holding their own through seven innings. The game remained a tight contest until Linn-Benton's J. Fera equalized in the seventh with a sacrifice fly, scoring C. Flores.

The game stood at a stalemate at 2-2 heading into extra innings. Linn-Benton's E. Corey delivered an exceptional performance in relief, allowing no hits over three innings and striking out seven batters, securing the win for the Roadrunners. It was in the 12th inning that Linn-Benton sealed their victory. J. Dodge's crucial double brought C. Flores home, while A. Demianew's single scored Dodge, setting the final score at 4-2.

Chemeketa's T. Brenneman took the loss, despite a commendable four-inning stint, conceding the final two runs that determined the game. Despite Chemeketa's efforts, they were unable to overcome Linn-Benton's late-game surge.

With this win, Linn-Benton improves their record to 13-3-1, while Chemeketa falls to 8-11. This intense matchup highlighted both teams' resolve and showcased exceptional pitching talent, particularly in the latter stages of the game.

**Linn-Benton Beats Chemeketa with a 4-0 Victory**

In a dominant display on March 22, 2025, at Chemeketa, Linn-Benton Community College's baseball team secured a 4-0 win against their conference rivals, lifting their season record to 13-3-1 overall and 9-3 in conference play. Chemeketa, meanwhile, dropped to 8-12 overall and 2-8 in conference play.

Linn-Benton took control early, capitalizing on Chemeketa's defensive mistakes and their own power hitting. They initiated scoring in the top of the second inning with a two-run homer from N. Biagi, bringing J. Holmes home. The Roadrunners added to their lead in the third inning when J. Holmes hit a double to send K. Lindstrom across the plate, further establishing their dominance at 3-0. E. Rolfe sealed the deal with a solo home run in the seventh inning, bringing the final score to 4-0.

Linn-Benton's pitching was equally impressive, with starting pitcher C. Richardson having an exceptional day on the mound. He pitched a complete game, allowing only five hits and striking out one batter, earning his first win of the season. Richardson's efficiency and command of the game were evident with only 97 pitches thrown, 62 of which were strikes.

Chemeketa struggled to find offensive rhythm throughout the game, experiencing decent individual efforts from JC. Klee, L. Kreisberg, E. Blackhawk, and J. Genduso. Despite reaching base five times, the Storm were unable to convert these opportunities into runs.

Starting pitcher A. Yost was charged with the loss, allowing three runs on five hits over six innings, walking three and striking out three. M. Eaton took over for the final inning, conceding one run on a solo shot by Rolfe.

Linn-Benton displayed a balanced blend of solid pitching, timely hitting, and defensive tenacity, reflecting their commendable 13-3-1 record. The game, lasting just two hours, underscored Linn-Benton's tactical superiority as they aim to maintain their momentum in the ongoing baseball season. Despite playing in front of an empty stand due to undisclosed reasons, the Roadrunners demonstrated resilience and skill as they navigated through Chemeketa's challenge.