The Missouri Western baseball team opened up MIAA play with two victories against Emporia State by scores of 8-5 and 7-6. The Griffons improve to 3-3 overall and 2-0 in MIAA action.

Game 1: MWSU 8, ESU 5
In game one the Griffons got a solid outing from junior pitcher Jake Jones as he picked up his first victory of the season. He improves to 1-0 with the victory. Logan Hollingsworth came into get the save in game one.

Offensively Kyle Simpson had an outstanding game hitting a home run, triple and two singles. Grant Fink also hit a homer in the first game for the Griffons.

Game 2: MWSU 7, ESU 6
The Griffons mounted a four run eighth inning to pick up a 7-6 victory in game two against the Hornets. In game two Ethan Ward pitched six strong innings. He left the game with the score tied at three. Hollingworth once again came in for relief. He pitched well picking up the victory.

Offensively Jimmy Smelcer and David Chew hit homers. Shawn Egge had the game tying single in the eighth and Michael Schulze got the game winning hit.

Emporia State falls to 1-5 on the season and 0-2 in MIAA play.

The two teams will wrap up the three game series tomorrow February 17 with a single nine inning game. First pitch is scheduled for noon from Trusler Sports Complex.

— MWSU Sports Information —