LINCOLN, Neb. (Feb. 14, 2026) - In what was ultimately a pitcher's duel on both sides, it would be Hamline University coming through with just enough offense on Saturday afternoon to hold off the Buena Vista baseball team, 4-0, in the team's season opener.
Both starting pitchers were on top of their respective games but it was a struggle throughout for either to get much offensive support. Junior
Ean McDaniel took the ball for the opening day start for BVU and pitched five strong innings, allowing only two runs and two hits while striking out nine and walking only two. Carsen Brachtel and
Christian Kaanapu each came on in relief to pitch two innings apiece and were both charged with one run and only one combined hit.
Hamline drew a bases loaded walk in the first inning to grab the early 1-0 lead before adding RBI singles in both the fifth and seventh innings to go in front 3-0. The final score of the game came in the top of the ninth on a fielder's choice.
The two offenses were held in check to only seven combined hits.
Connor Duong and
Jack Dahlager each doubled for the game's only two extra-base hits. The Beavers were unable to capitalize on their opportunities and stranded seven runners overall. Aside from the two doubles, the Beavers also got a single from both
Cooper Sobeck and
Brandon Jenkins. Jenkins also walked twice and stole a pair of bases.
Buena Vista (0-1) looks to bounce back on Sunday afternoon as it plays a doubleheader against the Pipers to complete the three-game series. First pitch is set for 12 p.m.