Mustangs Clinch First NAIA National Tournament Berth in Program History

OZARK, Mo. - The Mount Mercy baseball team has clinched their first appearance in the NAIA National Tournament in program history, taking down top-seeded Central Methodist in the Heart of America semifinals on Monday, winning by a score of 4-1.

Jeremy Figueroa would pace the Mustang offense, leading the team in hits as the only player to record two hits. Riley Rundquist would lead the team in RBI's, recording a game high two, coming on a single to left center in the fourth, which would open the scoring as the Mustangs jumped out to the early lead. The Eagles would get within one as Carlos Negron drove in a run on an RBI groundout.

From then on, the Mustangs would control the game. Drake Frazier would tally his lone hit in the contest, which was an RBI double to left field, extending the Mustangs lead to a pair in the seventh inning. Later in the seventh, Tyler Dahm would single up the middle, scoring Frazier as the Mustangs were able to hold on to a 4-1 win.

Kyle Lehmann and Ashton Schwab had phenomenal performances on the mound, holding the Eagles to just one and six hits. The one run allowed is tied for a season low against the Eagles, as CMU was held to just one run only three other times. Lehmann would pitch 6.2 innings while earning his fifth win of the season. Over those 6.2 innings, Lehmann allowed five hits with just the one earned run. Schwab came in and sealed the deal, earning the save while throwing just over two innings and only allowing one hit while striking out a pair.

"I am very excited for our players," added head coach Jack Dahm. "They have been through a lot the last two years on and off the field that has only brought them closer together. They know they are not done building their legacy yet. There is more to do still. I also want to thank each and every former player, Paul Gavin and the administration, Mount Mercy University, and especially my family. My son Casey as been a part of this program from day one and he knew the day was coming and had more belief than anybody. My wife and daughter have also done so much for us with the lead off dinner and making incredible sacrifices. Last but not least, having Tyler playing on this team is super special. Stangs are not done yet!"

The Mustangs advance to the Heart of America championship game, with their opponent to be decided later tonight. Game time is slated for a 9 a.m. first pitch in Ozark, Mo.