In a tightly contested game, the Hope College baseball team narrowly fell to The University of Olivet by a score of 2-1. The match took place on Friday, marking the start of their series. A standout performance from junior centerfielder Jace DeMann, who hit his first home run of the season, was not enough to secure a victory for Hope College. The competition continues with a doubleheader scheduled for Saturday, April 12, at Boeve Baseball Stadium.

The pivotal moment occurred during the seventh inning when DeMann delivered a solo home run to break the deadlock. However, Olivet quickly responded in the eighth inning through an RBI double by Neal Droste, leveling the score once more. The decisive play came in the ninth inning when Austin Alflen's single brought Mikey Kuzara home, resulting in the winning unearned run for Olivet.

Olivet's pitching staff proved effective throughout the game. Their starting pitcher, Bryan Carney, allowed only three hits while facing Hope College's lineup. Freshman designated hitter Colton Kinnie contributed two singles for the Flying Dutchmen but it wasn't sufficient to overturn the deficit.

On the mound for Hope College, senior Mason Belmore demonstrated remarkable resilience. Over 8.1 innings, he conceded just eight hits and struck out 13 batters despite ultimately suffering the loss. His efforts kept Hope within striking distance until the final moments of the game.

The upcoming doubleheader offers Hope College another opportunity to reclaim momentum in this crucial series against Olivet. With high stakes and fierce rivalry, fans can expect an exhilarating showdown as both teams aim to dominate on the diamond.