Mavericks Power Past St. Mary's to Edge Closer to Title
Colorado Mesa's baseball squad surged to a 15-9 victory over St. Mary's on Thursday, putting them one win away from capturing the NCAA Division II South Central Regional championship.
The win comes despite the absence of star outfielder Kolby Felix, who was sidelined with a hand injury that kept him out of the lineup.
Senior shortstop Kennedy Hara ignited the offense, launching two home runs and driving in four runs, while first baseman Landon Nunes matched the feat with a pair of blasts, including a 401-foot three-run homer that shifted momentum.
Together, Hara and Nunes accounted for six of the team's eight long balls, underscoring the depth of the Mavericks' power hitting.
On the mound, right-hander Justin Schramm earned his fourth win of the season, delivering a solid outing that kept St. Mary's batters at bay during critical stretches.
A Rematch Looms as Saturday's Game Could Seal the Crown
The Mavericks will meet St. Mary's again on Saturday at 3 p.m., with a potential decisive showdown scheduled for 7 p.m. should the series extend to a third game.
Coach and players alike emphasized staying present and savoring the moment, with Hara noting the importance of focusing on each pitch rather than the looming stakes.
With the championship within reach, the team's blend of resilience, timely hitting and reliable pitching has positioned them as a formidable contender for the regional title.