Holland Reporter

Grand Valley State University, ranked fifth, split their GLIAC doubleheader against Davenport University, ranked fourteenth, on Friday. The first game saw GVSU take a 4-2 victory, though they fell short in the second, losing 7-6. The two teams will meet again on Saturday at Davenport.

In the opening game, GVSU gained an early lead in the fourth inning with two runs. Key players included junior shortstop Evan Morrison and senior right-fielder Ryan Dykstra, both contributing single hits. Senior catcher Brendan Guciardo's single scored Morrison, and Dykstra crossed the plate due to an error by the opposing right fielder. Although Davenport tied the game by the fifth, GVSU secured the win with two more runs in the sixth inning, thanks to Dykstra's triple and first baseman Jovan Gill's sacrifice fly.

On the mound, GVSU's Jayden Dentler faced Keagan Batka from Davenport. Dentler, maintaining a 6-0 record, gave up two runs on six hits and achieved seven strikeouts. He notably thwarted a potential scoring situation in the second inning by picking off a runner at third base and striking out an ensuing batter.

In game two, GVSU initially led 2-1 after Ryan Stimac's two-RBI single following a sacrifice bunt by third baseman Caleb Estrada. However, Davenport surged ahead with five runs in the fifth inning, establishing a 6-2 lead. GVSU fought back in the sixth inning, closing the gap to 6-5 with three runs, but failed to overtake the lead. Davenport added another run shortly thereafter.

Owen Avery was credited with the loss for the Lakers, although Colby Phipps delivered a steady performance in relief, allowing one run on two hits and striking out three across 3.1 innings.

Stimac finished the game with two hits, two RBI, and a run. Gulbrandsen contributed two hits and a run, while Dykstra delivered a solo home run.

Game three between these teams is set to continue on Saturday.