Northern Colorado’s baseball team lost to Utah Valley 11–6 on Friday in the opening game of their series at UCCU Ballpark in Orem, Utah. The Bears collected seven hits and five walks but could not hold off a late rally by Utah Valley, which scored six runs in the eighth inning to secure the win.
Utah Valley started strong with three runs in the first inning. Northern Colorado responded in the second when Logan Pruski singled and later scored on an RBI fielder’s choice by Sam Pease. In the third, Jaden Stone reached base and stole second before Zeke Minic hit an RBI double. Ethan Mooser followed with an RBI single to tie the game at 3–3.
The Bears took their first lead in the sixth inning after Mason Griffin singled and Brandon Sanchez hit a sacrifice fly for a 4–3 advantage. Two more runs came as Stone reached on an error that allowed a run, and Jake Bullard doubled home another, making it 6–3.
Utah Valley answered in the bottom of the sixth with a solo home run from Mason Strong and an RBI double from Chipper Beck, narrowing UNC’s lead to 6–5. In the eighth, Utah Valley capitalized on walks and timely hits to score six runs and take control of the game.
Jake Bullard led Northern Colorado offensively with two doubles and an RBI in five at-bats. Logan Pruski also had two hits, while Minic contributed a double and an RBI. Stone scored twice and stole two bases during the game.
Northern Colorado will play a doubleheader against Utah Valley on Saturday starting at 12:05 p.m. Mountain Time.
“The Diamond Club plays a vital role in supporting the UNC Baseball program. By giving to the Diamond Club, you help provide access to facility enhancements—such as the Jackson Field Turf Project—along with advanced technology and elevated daily operations, giving our student-athletes the resources to compete and excel at the highest level.”
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