Chicago’s consistent pitching performances were not enough to give the Maroons a win this past weekend.
The South Siders (6–20) dropped both of their games in their doubleheader against Concordia (11–14) on the road this past Saturday afternoon. Chicago was unable to support first-year pitcher Thomas Prescott and second-year pitcher Mark Landgrebe at the plate.
“In both games, we got very good outings from our starting pitchers, Tom Prescott and Mark Landgrebe,” said second-year pitcher Alex Athenson. “They kept us within striking distance in both games, but we were just never able to come through and score enough runs.”
Although the Maroons led DIII in batting average last season, this year’s team has struggled offensively.
“Our hitting was missing in both games, and we made some costly errors, but our pitching was very strong in both games,” said third-year infielder Nate Wagner.
In its first game against Concordia, Chicago was able to stay in the game, as it was only down by one until the bottom of the sixth, when an untimely error allowed the Falcons to score four runs and solidify their lead over the Maroons to 5–0.
In game two, the Maroons gave Concordia a three-run lead in the bottom of the first. Chicago did not respond and was unable to convert, leaving runners stranded on base, as the Falcons cushioned their lead at the end of the game to another 5–0 victory.
Despite the losses, the Maroons still had some solid performances from both older and younger players.
“[first-year infielder] Ryan Krob made some very nice defensive plays throughout, and [fourth-year co-captain and designated hitter] Dylan Massey had three hits for us and put us in position to score several times in game one,” said Wagner.
Looking forward, the Maroons aim to put together their mental and physical game to come out strong in their upcoming games against Elmhurst and North Central.
Physically, the South Siders insist that a strong offensive and defensive performance in one game will help them towards victory.
“We need to consistently field the ball and consistently throw the ball where it needs to go,” said fourth-year pitcher Alex Terry.
“As long as our pitching staff keeps doing what we’re doing, we’ll have a chance to win every game. In all of our games this season, when we can string hits together with runners on base, and everyone in the lineup contributes, it usually translates to success,” Athenson said.
The team atmosphere and attitude have been integral to Chicago’s success this season.
“For the games we win, we’re loud and cheering in the dugout [as well as] on the field and very focused. It’s the difference between knowing you’ll find a way to win and finding a way to lose,” Wagner said.
The Maroons face off against Elmhurst and North Central at home on Stagg Field this week. First pitch against Elmhurst is set for Tuesday at 3:30 p.m, and Chicago takes on North Central this Wednesday at 3 p.m.
