March 22, 2025
McPherson, KS – Just when it looked like the bats might cool off, Nelson University baseball ignited one final spark. The Lions exploded for five runs in the ninth inning to complete a thrilling 14–11 comeback win over Central Christian College (Kan.) and clinch the conference series on the road.
Lions Review
Nelson came out swinging, plating four runs in the first and tacking on solo runs in five of the next six innings. But it was the resilient ninth that made all the difference.
Down 10–9, Andrew Ortiz delivered a 2-RBI single to put the Lions in front. Moments later, Dominick Padilla ripped a 2-run double down the line, and Xavien Thompson capped the rally with an RBI single of his own. The trio combined for 8 hits and 9 RBIs, while Ortiz and Thompson each added a stolen base.
Josh Pinter launched a solo homer in the 6th and doubled later, finishing 3-for-4. Zeke Holder and Padilla each had 2 RBIs, with Holder swiping a bag as well.
On the mound, Blaine Vaughan shut the door with 2 strong innings to earn his first win of the season after relievers Hamilton Moye and Layton Mogford held the Tigers scoreless from the 4th through the 8th.
What's Next?
The Lions (18–14) return home for a non-conference doubleheader against Arlington Baptist University on Tuesday, March 25 at 2:00 PM at the Lions Athletic Complex.
Nelson University (formerly SAGU) is a private Christian university, established in 1927 by P.C. Nelson. The University is located 30 minutes south of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas, and offers more than 70 associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees on campus or online. For more information, visit www.nelson.edu or by calling 1-888-YES-NELSON.
