Track and baseball continue; tennis returns

Tyler Pell

After starting the season strongly last week, the Titans looked to build on their success in the Treasure Valley Tournament in Ontario, Ore. on March 6-8.

The Titans opened up the tourney with a 9-7 victory over eighth-ranked Treasure Valley Community College. Sophomore right-hander Ben Schreiner picked up the win, and sophomore Jody Potter hit his first home run of the season.

Later that day, LCC won again 8-7. Schreiner picked up another win for the Titans, this time against Prairie Academy from Alberta, Canada.

On Saturday, March 7, the Titans lost their morning game to Miles Community College of Miles City, Mont., 7-3. The Titans were up 3-2 at one point, but four runs and two key errors in the eighth inning put this one out of reach.

The Titans played their fourth game in 24 hours on Saturday afternoon, a game in which they won, 6-2. Jody Potter pitched well, and Johnny Miles had a couple of RBIs.

On Sunday, March 8, the Titans played in the tournament's championship game against Prairie Academy. Freshman infielder Brenden Hindle went 1-2 and drew three walks. Sophomore right-hander Sean O'Conner left the game in the sixth inning with a 2-1 lead. The Titans ended up winning 4-3. Matt Bellando got the save.

Head Coach Rob Strickland said his team's pitching was the shining point of the weekend. He also noted the Titans' defense played very strong.

Up next for the Titans is Lower Columbia Community College on Saturday, March 14, in Longview, Wash. The game should serve as a great barometer for the Titans, as Lower Columbia is ranked No.1 in the Horizon Air poll. Two weeks into the season, the Titans record now stands at 5-4.