The Gustavus baseball team split its opening doubleheader on its spring break trip to Clearwater, Florida. The Gusties played Ramapo College of Mahwah, New Jersey losing the first game 12-11 and winning the second 13-8.
In game one, Gustavus trailed 5-0 after three innings and then rallied to take an 11-9 lead after six innings. Unfortunately, the Gusties gave up three runs in the seventh inning and lost 12-11. The Gustavus pitching staff struggled in the game allowing nine walks. Josh Spitzack suffered the loss on the mound. Ash Larsen went 2-for-4 and Aaron Madson went 4-for-4 with a double to lead the Gusties at the plate.
In game two, the Gusties got off to a slow start again and trailed 3-0 early. Coach Mike Carroll’s squad rallied to claim the 13-8 win. Free passes were a problem again for the squad as the Gusties issued seven walks. The good news for Gustavus was the pitching of Ben Eklo who was credited with the win. Eklo made his first appearance in over 18 months after he underwent Tommy John surgery to repair an elbow injury. Hitting stars for the Gusties included freshman Tyler Kaus who went 3-for-6 with a double, Aaron Madson who picked up three hits in four at-bats and Shea Roehrkasse who went 2-for-3.
Gustavus, which is now 3-3 on the season, will play Edgewood College of Madison, Wisconsin tomorrow in a doubleheader which begins at 10:00 am (EST). The Gusties will not play on Easter Sunday.