Bethany, Okla. -
Game 1
In an unfortunate start to the conference tournament, the Southwestern Christian University Eagles were edged out by the Oklahoma City Stars with a close final score of 5-4 on April 25, 2025, in Bethany, Oklahoma. Despite a humid weather setting, both teams showed strong performances in this crucial first round.
The Eagles battled fiercely against their opponents, showcasing remarkable efforts from their starting pitcher,
Elian Cuevas, who threw seven complete innings with an impressive tally of 14 strikeouts and conceding only one earned run.
Dario Paredes was a notable performer for the Eagles, hitting a home run and contributing significantly to the late-game rally.
In key moments of the game during the bottom of the 9th inning, Southwestern Christian scored three runs, closing what had been a broader gap thanks to crucial hits by Paredes along with
Joseph Boone,
Elvis Rojas,
Kyler Ayres, and
Joey Thornton. Despite the strong comeback attempt, the Stars managed to hold off the Eagles, securing the win.
The standout players for Oklahoma City included Hu. Brown, who hit a homer along with securing three unearned RBIs, solidifying the Stars' position early in the game. For the Eagles, the loss leaves their current record at 34-15, but the team's spirit remains undeterred as they aim to leverage this experience for their upcoming games.
Reflecting on the game, the efforts of Southwestern Christian's players highlighted their tenacity and skill, ensuring that this tournament opener will be remembered for its intense competition and the strong promise shown by the Eagles for future matches.
Game 2
In the first round of their conference tournament held on April 25, 2025, the Southwestern Christian University Eagles were overpowered by the Oklahoma City Stars with a final score of 15-5. Despite the challenging outcome, the Eagles fought until the end under humid, sunny conditions at home.
The game, which was highlighted by Oklahoma City's robust innings, saw the Stars take command early on. Key performances in the second and eighth innings, where they scored 6 and 3 runs respectively, sealed a significant lead. Southwestern Christian's players, including
Dario Paredes,
Jhors Gomez,
Gregory Berroa,
Braden Browning, and
Draike Sparks, contributed runs, demonstrating their fighting spirit against a tough opponent. Notably, Gomez alongside Browning,
Matys Gagnon, and Paredes, also secured RBIs, adding crucial points to the Eagles' tally during the game.
Frangely Morel started as pitcher for the Eagles, facing a formidable opposition lineup. Despite the adversities, the team's efforts to challenge the Stars were visible throughout the match. T. Ellis, credited as the winning pitcher for Oklahoma City, and B. Daniel, who hit a home run, were standouts for the Stars.
As the Eagles move forward, they hold a record of 34-16 for the season. The team remains hopeful and is eager to address areas for improvement as they look ahead to May and the NCCAA tournament.
