Xavier Sweeps Ball State In Doubleheader Series

CINCINNATI, Ohio – The Ball State baseball team faced a tough day on Saturday, March 22, 2025, as they succumbed to the Xavier Musketeers in both games of a doubleheader at Hayden Field. The Cardinals, now with a season record of 16-9, battled hard but ultimately fell behind as the Musketeers rode a wave of momentum to sweep the series with a total score of 3-0.

In the first game, Xavier clinched a decisive 9-2 victory. The Musketeers capitalized on early scoring opportunities, taking the lead with a two-run home run from Isaac Wachsmann in the first inning. Nolan Tucker added a solo shot in the second, and Aedan Anderson complemented their efforts with another two-run homer in the fourth inning. This barrage put Xavier ahead, embarking on a six-run spree that led them to victory.

Clay Jacobs of Ball State did hit a home run in the second inning, bringing his team within striking distance at 2-1. This was followed by an RBI single from Korbin Griffin that closed the gap further to 3-2, but it just wasn't enough, as the Musketeers responded strongly.

Ball State's pitcher Jacob Hartlaub (3-2) suffered the loss, having allowed five runs over 3.1 innings. Xavier's Luke Hoskins (2-0) pitched 5.2 innings, striking out seven while conceding only two runs during his outing.

The second game mirrored the first in disappointment for the Cardinals. After Ty Davis launched a solo home run in the top of the third inning, Ball State took an early 1-0 lead. However, this lead was brief as Xavier came roaring back, scoring seven unanswered runs to cement their victory with a final score of 7-1.

In game two, Xavier's offense was relentless, starting with their response to Davis's homer. They managed to tie and take the lead in the bottom of the third inning. It was driven by Connor Misch, who was hit by a pitch, allowing Jason Jelic's run to score. They went on to gain a 2-1 lead after a wild pitch scored Lambdin.

Isaac Wachsmann delivered yet another powerful performance, crushing another two-run homer in the fifth inning, leading to a four-run inning for the Musketeers. Clay Burdette added to the tally, contributing a home run of his own in the eighth, completing a dominating performance against the Cardinals.

Ball State starter Connor Hutchinson (1-1) took the loss in the second game, working 4.2 innings, while his counterpart Ben Weber (2-2) excelled with 7.0 innings, striking out three and giving up just one earned run.

For Ball State, aside from Jacobs and Griffin, who both had multiple hits in the first game, their offense struggled overall, with only Dylan Grego managing a double in the second game against Xavier’s strong pitching. Xavier’s victory not only showcased their ability to hit the ball but displayed defensive prowess and a well-rounded team effort.

This series marks a significant turnaround for the Xavier Musketeers, who improved their overall record to 11-13. The team heads into their next contest against No. 24 Kentucky on March 25, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. on SEC Network+, eager to ride the momentum gained from this weekend’s sweep.

While the Cardinals look to regroup, they will be hosting USI at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, March 25, to seek redemption after a tough series.