The Vikings ended their season on a positive note splitting with Carroll College last Tuesday, May 6. Lawrence (11-18, 5-11 MWC) won the first game 13-5 and the Pioneers (10-21, 5-11 MWC) scored three runs in the ninth to win the second game 18-17.
The Vikes wasted no time in the first game, scoring nine of their 13 runs in the first three innings. The second inning was key, as the Vikings got five runs, highlighted by sophomore Wes Otte’s two-run double. Senior Adam Fritsch hit a two run homer in the eighth, and sophomore pitcher Andy Frelich went the distance, allowing 10 hits while striking out four and walking two.
The Pioneers were determined not to be embarrassed by the Vikings; they opened up game two with an 11-4 lead after three innings, despite seniors Tommy Schmidt and Tim Salm hitting back-to-back home runs in the second inning. Lawrence still trailed 14-8 as they entered the sixth inning, when they scored seven runs, highlighted by junior Frank Forseth’s three-run double.
It was looking good for LU, who led 17-15 after Schmidt and Salm hit back-to-back home runs in the eighth, but Carroll rallied to score three runs and won the game. Sophomore pitcher Luke Kostreva took the loss for the Vikes.
Congratulations to Tommy Schmidt and Tim Salm on being voted on to the MWC All-Conference team.
Congratulations to the Vikings on a successful season, and good luck to the graduating seniors!