WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – The Carolina University Baseball Bruins earned a split in Saturday's doubleheader against Toccoa Falls College, bouncing back with a strong Game 1 victory before falling in a tightly contested Game 2 at Rich Park.

Game 1: Carolina 6, Toccoa Falls 2

Carolina responded in dominant fashion in the opening game, using a six-run surge over the fifth and sixth innings to secure a 6-2 win.

After four scoreless innings, the Bruins broke through in the bottom of the fifth when Nathan Wesley launched a three-run home run to center field, giving Carolina a 3-1 advantage. The Bruins continued to apply pressure in the sixth inning, capitalizing on timely hitting and defensive miscues to plate three additional runs and extend the lead to 6-1.

Chandler Smithart led the offensive effort, going 3-for-4 with two runs scored, while Ty Vespe added two hits. Wesley finished with three RBI on his pivotal home run.

On the mound, Cameron Gribble delivered a complete-game performance, allowing just two runs (one earned) on nine hits while striking out nine batters to earn the win.

Game 2: Toccoa Falls 4, Carolina 3

In the second game of the doubleheader, Carolina jumped out to an early lead but was unable to hold off a late push from Toccoa Falls, falling 4-3.

The Bruins struck first in the opening inning as Nathan Wesley continued his hot day with a two-run home run, and Ty Vespe added an RBI single to give Carolina a 3-0 advantage.

Toccoa Falls responded steadily, tying the game in the fourth inning before taking the lead in the seventh on an RBI walk.

Wesley once again led the offense with two RBI, while Daniel Isbell and Andres Hoyos each contributed extra-base hits. Carolina recorded six hits in the contest.

On the mound, Kolden Hunter provided a solid start, allowing three runs (one earned) over 4.2 innings, while Grant Polk was charged with the loss.

From the Coach

Associate Head Coach Logan Conklin reflected on the day's performance:

"I'm proud of how our guys responded in Game 1. We showed toughness and executed when it mattered. In Game 2, we had opportunities but didn't capitalize late. We'll learn from it and keep working to be more consistent across both games of a doubleheader."

Up Next

Carolina University Baseball will travel to Bluefield University on Tuesday, March 24, for their next road contest.