Must-Win Games on Saturday After Split: BBCC Faces High Stakes

BBCC hit the road to Ontario, OR for their final conference series on Wednesday May 8th for the first two games of the four game set. 

In a high-stakes showdown, Big Bend Community College took on the Treasure Valley Community College Chukars, needing a win to keep their postseason hopes alive. The game started with tension as BBCC's starting pitcher, Hayden Schooler, exited after facing only two batters due to an injury.

Despite this setback, BBCC quickly put two runs on the board in the top of the first inning. However, Schooler's early exit allowed the Chukars to capitalize, scoring four runs in the bottom half, putting BBCC in a 4-2 deficit.

BBCC responded vigorously, showcasing their resilience and offensive prowess. They added a run in the third inning, three more in the fourth, and continued to dominate with four runs in the fifth and one more in the sixth, ultimately securing an 11-5 victory.

The bullpen was a fortress, with Brett Nemechek and James Macrae combining for seven innings of stellar relief, allowing just one run while striking out ten batters. Offensively, Rory Swanson led the charge from the leadoff spot, collecting three hits. Gunnar Graves, JT Penrod, and Oak Held also contributed significantly, each tallying two hits.

BBCC faced a challenging game two in their series against Treasure Valley Community College. With postseason hopes hanging in the balance, Garin Gurtler took the mound for BBCC. After conceding a single run in the first inning, Gurtler found his rhythm, delivering three consecutive scoreless innings and keeping BBCC within striking distance.

However, the fifth inning proved to be pivotal and challenging for Gurtler and the Vikings. A leadoff walk set the stage for TVCC's offensive surge. Gurtler then allowed a two-run homer, shifting momentum firmly in favor of the Chukars. The trouble didn't end there, as TVCC followed up with a single and two more walks, loading the bases and creating a precarious situation for BBCC. TVCC capitalized with their second home run of the inning, a grand slam, resulting in a six-run inning and pushing the Chukars to a 7-2 lead.

BBCC, despite their efforts, struggled to respond offensively. The Vikings made solid contact, but their hits consistently found TVCC defenders, leading to outs rather than the needed base hits. This offensive struggle resulted in a frustrating 7-2 loss for BBCC, diminishing their chances for a straightforward path to the postseason.

As the series moves towards its conclusion, BBCC finds themselves in a must-win scenario. To keep their playoff dreams alive, BBCC must sweep the upcoming doubleheader on Saturday. In addition to their own success, BBCC will also need favorable outcomes from other Eastern Region teams to secure a postseason berth.

The Vikings' resilience will be tested as they head into the final games of the regular season. With their backs against the wall, BBCC's players and coaching staff are focused on delivering a strong performance, hoping to extend their season and keep their championship aspirations alive. The stakes have never been higher, and the team is determined to rise to the occasion, showcasing their grit and determination in the face of adversity. Head Coach Chase Tunstall had this to say regarding the split.

"We needed to win both, that would have allowed us to control our own destiny on Saturday. With that being said we still have to bring it knowing that crazy things can happen in this league. We expect to finish the season strong regardless of the outcome."

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