Air Force baseball (2-7) suffered a pair of losses on Friday, falling to Oral Roberts (4-6) by a score of 6-3 and to Dallas Baptist (7-3) 15-11 at Horner Ballpark. Across both games, the Falcons recorded 17 hits and 11 strikeouts.
Air Force vs. Oral Roberts
Walker Zapp, Kayden Bradshaw and J.D. Wolff each drove in runs for Air Force in the first matchup. Right-hander Gaines Estridge (0-1) started for the Falcons, pitching 5.1 innings and allowing five runs. Despite the run total, Estridge retired nine consecutive batters during the game. Easton Miller and Gunner Gilmore also appeared in relief, with Gilmore striking out four batters in 2.1 innings.
Oral Roberts took an early lead in the first inning, but a double play involving Landon Boyd, Wyatt Hanoian, and Luke Elmore limited the damage. Air Force tied the game in the fifth inning on an RBI double by Bradshaw. Oral Roberts responded with four runs in the sixth, but the Falcons narrowed the gap in the seventh with a sacrifice fly from Wolff and another from Zapp.
Air Force vs. Dallas Baptist
Walker Zapp had a standout performance in the second game, hitting a grand slam and a three-run homer for a total of seven RBIs – both career highs. Landon Boyd also hit a home run, and Luke Elmore and Kayden Bradshaw each contributed an RBI.
Air Force used seven pitchers in the game, with Josh Holst taking the loss after allowing four earned runs. Marcus Downing, Davis Rhyne, Joey Collier, Trey Rutledge, Sam Hentges, and Patrick Davidson also saw action on the mound. The Falcons took an early 1-0 lead, but Dallas Baptist quickly responded. After falling behind, Air Force rallied in the sixth and seventh innings, but Dallas Baptist ultimately secured the 15-11 victory.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the game against Oral Roberts?
The final score of the game against Oral Roberts was 6-3, with Oral Roberts winning.
How many home runs did Walker Zapp hit against Dallas Baptist?
Walker Zapp hit two home runs against Dallas Baptist – a grand slam and a three-run homer.
How many pitchers did Air Force use in the game against Dallas Baptist?
Air Force used seven pitchers in the game against Dallas Baptist.
With the series continuing, what adjustments might Air Force make to their pitching or batting lineup to find success against these opponents?
