Missouri State opened its series against Kennesaw State with a 5‑3 victory, snapping a modest skid and moving into a tie for second in the Conference USA standings. The Bears scored all their runs in the first four innings, turning a modest early lead into a comfortable cushion.
Early Surge
The offense exploded right away, with Curry Sutherland delivering an RBI double and Taeg Gollert following with an RBI ground out. Jax Ryan’s single and Carter Bergman’s 15th home run of the season pushed the lead to 4‑1 by the third inning, highlighting a balanced attack that left the Owls scrambling.
Pitching Dominance
Starter Jason Schaaf anchored the effort, scattering five innings and earning his seventh straight start with a win. Reliever Ross Felder fanned three batters in a single frame, while Tyler Charlton closed out the game with three scoreless innings and his fifth save, preserving the lead.
Late Innings and a Solo Shot
Kennesaw State managed a solo homer in the fourth inning, the only extra‑base hit of the contest, but the Bears’ early cushion proved enough. Gabe Roessler’s leadoff single set up Sutherland’s sacrifice fly, and a double play later in the seventh halted a potential rally, leaving the Owls with just that solitary homer to show for their effort.
Standings and Outlook
The win coincided with Liberty’s loss at Middle Tennessee, allowing Missouri State to climb into a tie for second place. The Bears will look to carry the momentum into game two, scheduled for 5 p.m. Central on Friday, as they aim to solidify their position in the conference race.