Calvin Jensen, Sports Information Director, Utah State Eastern

Photo courtesy of Jeff Barrett

Game 1

In their home opener, USU Eastern baseball began their doubleheader with an 11-1 victory over Treasure Valley Community College.   The Eagles had a dominant performance led by McGwire Jephson, who drove in four runs on two hits. Jephson’s impactful hits included a single in the fourth inning, bringing in two runs, and another single in the third inning, adding one more run to the scoreboard.

The game took a decisive turn in the fifth inning when Eastern pulled ahead with six runs. Kaden Miller’s double brought in two runs, while Mack Bright’s sacrifice fly and Jephson’s hit-by-pitch both contributed to the offensive onslaught. A single by Nathan Rose also added two more runs to their impressive tally.

Pitcher Wayland Crane secured the win for USU Eastern, allowing only two hits and one run over five innings, while striking out eight. The Chuckar’s Zadow took the loss, yielding six runs (three earned) in just one inning of play.

The Eagles impressed both offensively and defensively, with three stolen bases and zero errors.

Game 2

In the second game of their doubleheader, the Eagles faced a tough 7-9 loss against the Chuckars. Despite both teams putting up a significant number of runs and six hits apiece, Eastern was unable to secure the win.

Treasure Valley took an early lead with a solo home run in the second inning. However, USU Eastern responded in the third inning as McGwire Jephson’s sacrifice fly and Bodee Goins’ single pushed them back into the lead.

The game remained tight until the fifth inning when Treasure Valley CC pulled ahead, fueled by a double and groundout. Goins’ solo home run in the bottom of the fifth kept the Eagles in the game, but Treasure Valley CC ultimately took control in the ninth inning, scoring five runs to secure the victory.

Despite the loss, Goins and Jephson each collecting two hits. Goins and Zak Nelson were key contributors, driving in two runs each. The team displayed discipline at the plate with 11 walks, led by Kaden Miller and Mack Bright, who each drew three walks. Additionally, Miller’s two stolen bases and the team’s five stolen bases overall demonstrated their aggressive baserunning.

Looking ahead, Eastern prepares to face Treasure Valley CC again on Saturday, February 24 with a doubleheader beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Carlson-Colosimo Field.  Fans can also watch the games live on the Scenic West Digital Network.