Craig Palidar Assistant Coach / Catching | Grand Valley State University Athletics Website
Craig Palidar Assistant Coach / Catching | Grand Valley State University Athletics Website
Grand Valley State University took a commanding 4-0 win over Wayne State University during their recent series, which they won 3-1. With this win, the Lakers have improved their overall record to 31-10 and hold a 14-6 record in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC).
The performance was highlighted by two crucial two-out, two-run singles in the second and fourth innings. In the second inning, Ayden VanEnkevort reached base on a fielder’s choice, and Caden Thelen was hit by a pitch. Ryan Stimac then delivered a single to center field, bringing both VanEnkevort and Thelen home. The fourth inning saw VanEnkevort's single and a walk issued to Thelen, eventually setting up Evan Morrison's single to left field to score Stimac and Thelen, securing a 4-0 advantage for the Lakers.
The Lakers' pitching staff, led by senior Alan Thorington, maintained control throughout the game, limiting Wayne State's opportunities. Thorington allowed no hits until the sixth inning, finishing his outing by allowing just three hits and recording five strikeouts over 7.1 innings. He allowed only one opponent to reach second base. Ayden VanEnkevort then closed the game, securing the win with three outs.
Key performances came from Evan Morrison, who was 1-4 with two RBIs, and Ryan Stimac, who was 1-3 with two RBIs. Ryan Dykstra contributed with two walks, while VanEnkevort added another hit and a run. Thelen also walked twice, was hit by a pitch, and scored two runs, rounding out a well-coordinated offensive and defensive effort by the Lakers.