WAUKESHA, Wis. — The Carroll University baseball team put together a strong all-around day at Frame Park on Wednesday, opening the doubleheader with a 10–7 comeback win over Carthage before rolling to a 15–3 victory over Wisconsin Lutheran in the nightcap.
Game 1 – Carroll 10, Carthage 7
Carroll opened the day with a resilient performance, using a six-run fifth inning to erase an early deficit and secure the win over Carthage.
After falling behind 6–1, the Pioneers erupted offensively in the fifth. Evan Becker provided the spark, blasting a three-run home run as part of a decisive rally that swung the momentum in Carroll's favor. Ross Olsen followed later in the inning with a two-run homer, giving Carroll the lead for good.
Carroll added to the advantage in the sixth, pushing across two more runs to build separation. Becker finished the opener with four RBIs, while Joey Appino went 3-for-3, scored four runs, and consistently set the table at the top of the lineup. Leo Matuga added three hits and scored twice.
On the mound, Carroll pieced together a strong relief effort after the early innings. Ben Olsen earned the win out of the bullpen, while Chayce Schultz closed out the game to record the save as the Pioneers held off a late Carthage push.
Game 2 – Carroll 15, Wisconsin Lutheran 3
The Pioneers carried their momentum into the second game, exploding for 15 runs on nine hits in a dominant win over Wisconsin Lutheran.
After the teams traded runs early, Carroll broke the game open in the third inning with a five-run frame, highlighted by a grand slam from Evan Becker. Carroll continued to apply pressure throughout the middle innings, scoring in four consecutive frames to pull away.
Leo Matuga turned in a standout performance, going 4-for-4 with three RBIs, while Joey Appino added a hit, scored twice, and drove in a run. Carroll showed depth throughout the lineup, with multiple players contributing RBIs and runs scored.
On the mound, Owen Ripley earned the win, working five innings while allowing just one run. Carroll's bullpen followed with solid relief to close out the game and complete the sweep. Joey Appino also became the all-time hits leader (185) for Carroll tonight, showcasing his consistency and ability over his four years in the program.
Carroll finished the day with two wins built on timely hitting, balanced offense, and steady pitching, continuing to build momentum as conference play progresses.
