The University of Minnesota Duluth baseball team successfully concluded their four-game series against the Minnesota State University Mankato Mavericks with a decisive 13-6 victory. This marks the first time since 2019 that the Bulldogs have managed to defeat the Mavericks. The game was filled with thrilling moments, including home runs, RBI singles, and strategic plays that extended UMD's lead significantly. Despite a late rally from the Mavericks, the Bulldogs maintained their dominance throughout the match.

Not only did this victory break an 18-game losing streak to the Mavericks, but it also showcased UMD's ability to challenge one of Division II's top teams. Looking ahead, the Bulldogs are set to face off against Augustana University Vikings at Wade Stadium on Thursday, March 27th, for their home opener.

Bulldogs Dominate Early and Extend Lead

The Bulldogs started strong by quickly establishing a lead in the opening inning through effective base running and timely hits. Joey Flom's leadoff double set the tone early, leading to multiple runs scored via key contributions from Troy Lynch, Garrett Stauffacher, and Ethan Pettis. Although the Mavericks retaliated with three runs in the bottom half, UMD's offense continued to thrive with additional runs in subsequent innings, extending their advantage.

In the initial stages of the game, UMD capitalized on several opportunities to score. Following Flom’s leadoff double, Lynch delivered an RBI single to right field, while Stauffacher followed up with a two-RBI triple. This combination allowed the Bulldogs to secure a commanding 4-0 lead early on. Despite the Mavericks' comeback attempt with three runs in the bottom of the first, UMD responded effectively in the second inning. A sacrifice bunt by Gabe Richardson and a crucial single by Nathan Rosenberg added further runs to the scoreboard. By the third inning, another solo home run by Stauffacher and an RBI fielder's choice play by Pettis increased the Bulldogs' lead to 7-3. The momentum remained firmly in UMD's favor as they consistently outplayed their opponents.

Strong Finish Secures Victory Against Top Competition

As the game progressed, the Bulldogs continued their offensive surge, adding more runs in the fifth inning thanks to a powerful three-run home run by Richardson. Errors by the Mavericks provided additional scoring chances, allowing UMD to extend their lead to 12-3 before any significant pushback occurred. Even though the Mavericks attempted a late rally with some home runs, the Bulldogs held firm and secured their impressive 13-6 win.

In the middle innings, the Bulldogs’ offense showed no signs of slowing down. In the fifth inning, back-to-back singles by Hayden Anthony and Flom, combined with a wild pitch, positioned runners optimally for Richardson’s monster three-run home run, which widened the gap to 10-3. Two more runs were added due to a defensive error by the Mavericks, bringing the score to 12-3. Although both teams exchanged home runs later in the game—Louis Magers hitting a two-run blast for the Mavericks and Rosenberg responding with a solo shot for the Bulldogs—the outcome was never in doubt. The Mavericks managed one last run in the ninth inning, but it was insufficient to overturn UMD’s commanding lead. This victory not only snapped an 18-game losing streak against the Mavericks but also highlighted UMD's capability to compete against one of the nation's best teams. With this triumph, the Bulldogs now look forward to their next challenge against Augustana University Vikings at Wade Stadium.