Dutch grab Iowa Conference baseball win over Simpson
Central Dutch Athletics
PELLA — It wasn’t the prettiest of games but the Central College baseball team triumphed over Iowa Conference rival Simpson College Friday evening 13-9 in Pella.
Central (12-15, 3-8) starting pitcher Tanner Wood (sophomore, Pella) struggled on the mound, throwing four innings, allowing nine hits, surrendering seven runs, six earned, walking three and striking out a trio of Simpson (4-24, 2-13) batters.
However, it was Wood’s bat in the bottom of the eighth inning that helped put the game away for the Dutch. Wood launched a missile over the right field wall for a two-run home run putting Central up 13-9.
“Tanner really battled on the mound tonight,” said coach Matt Schirm. “He gave up one big inning (more than 3 runs) and then settled down. His home run in the eighth inning was huge for us.”
Freshman reliever Tyler Steward (Norwalk) earned the win, throwing four innings, allowing two runs, scattering three hits and striking out three.
“I thought today was Tyler’s best outing so far in his career,” said Schirm. “He came in and was able to give us four solid innings.”
Junior shortstop Garrett Saunders (Bonaparte, Van Buren HS) went 3-for-5 with three RBIs and two doubles.
“Garrett is the engine to our offense,” said Schirm. “He’s really started to pick it up lately and so has the rest of our offense. It’s great getting that kind of production out of our leadoff hitter.”
Junior first baseman Ryan Bouwman (Bloomington, Ill., Normal HS) didn’t register a hit but scored four runs in his four plate appearances.
The two teams combined for 22 runs, 24 hits, 18 free baserunners (walks/HBPs) and four errors.
“We gave up a lot of free bases tonight but we also took advantage of them giving us free bases,” said Schirm.
Central will give the ball to sophomore righty Nick Long (Marshalltown) Saturday in game one of a twinbill with Simpson. First pitch of the doubleheader is at 1 p.m. Live stats will be available at athletics.central.edu and live video will be available on the Central College Dutch Facebook page.
