WICHITA – Newman picked up their first conference win of the season on Friday, defeating the #21 ranked Rogers State Hillcats. In a game that was moved up due to cold weather, it took both teams time to warm up at the plate.
Following three scoreless innings, the Jets finally broke through in the bottom of the fourth when center fielder Eli Wohl was walked to first with the bases loaded and brought Hayden Vandepol home to give Newman a one run lead. The Jets could not capitalize on another opportunity with the bases loaded in the inning.
Following three more scoreless innings, Newman would seal the victory with some insurance on a home run by short stop Zack Stewart in the bottom of the eighth. The home run was Stewart's fourth of the season, which is currently tied for second on the team. Stewart went three for three at the plate today.
The dugout celebrates Stewart's home run ( Via: Zach Brake)
Shawn Marquis made 2 diving plays in the game, and none bigger than his last when he dove for a line drive in right field then 2 hopped a ball from his knees to the man covering second base to double up Rogers State. The Jets were holding off the Hillcats from tying the game late.
Pitching for the Jets was Garrett VanDeventer, who recorded his second win of the season. No. 15 mowed down the No. 21 team in the nation, allowing just 3 hits on the day in a complete game shutout. The weather may of been sitting around the mid to high 20's but that didn't cool off the senior out of Arkansas City, Kansas. Garrett got crucial outs when needed.
"I knew coming into the game I was going to have an advantage given it was below freezing when we started the game." said VanDeventer. "One thing I talked with coach (Maus) about was working with the off speed and moving the ball around early and getting inside late in the counts, depending on who it was at the plate."
VanDeventer finished the game with 111 pitches. "I was really focused on getting ahead in counts and staying in the zone and getting soft contact. I want to give thanks to God today."
The win today gave Newman its 18th win all time vs Rogers State and its first shutout victory over RSU since 2016.
Newman and Rogers State continue the series tomorrow scheduled at 1 PM, before finishing the three game stand on Sunday.
