CADIZ, Ohio — The West Liberty University baseball team mounted a spirited late comeback Saturday afternoon but fell to Bluefield State University, 10-5, at Mazeroski Field.

Trailing 3-0 entering the eighth inning, the Big Blues erupted for seven runs to take command. A defensive miscue helped extend the inning before a series of timely hits — including multiple doubles — pushed the advantage to 10-0.

West Liberty refused to go quietly.

The Hilltoppers answered with five runs in the bottom of the eighth, showing resilience at the plate. Wyatt McClintock was hit by a pitch and later scored to ignite the rally. Aaron Flowers followed with a base hit, and Hunter White delivered a two-run single to get the Toppers on the board. Luke Foley added a two-run double later in the frame to trim the deficit to 10-5.

Despite collecting 11 hits and drawing four walks, West Liberty left 12 runners stranded and was unable to carry the momentum into the ninth.

John Thompson delivered a strong start for the Hilltoppers, tossing seven innings while allowing three earned runs on eight hits. He struck out seven, walked just one, and picked off a runner, finishing his outing with a dominant seventh inning that included three strikeouts.

Andrew Benchich took the loss in relief, surrendering five earned runs over two innings as Bluefield State broke the game open in the eighth.

White led the offense with a four-hit performance and two RBIs. Flowers added three hits and scored a run, while Foley chipped in two hits, including his two-run double in the eighth.

West Liberty will look to bounce back as the series continues Sunday at Noon and 3 p.m. at Mazeroski Field.



West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.