Raiders Drop First Home Conference Doubleheader to Lower Columbia

Pierce College opened NWAC conference play at home on Thursday, March 26, but couldn’t find enough offense in a pair of losses to Lower Columbia College, falling 4-1 in game one and 6-1 in game two.

Game 1: Lower Columbia 4, Pierce 1

Pierce struck first in the opening inning when Kai Halstead lifted a sacrifice fly to center, bringing home Bradley Carlfor an early 1-0 lead. That would be the Raiders’ only run of the game, despite collecting six hits.

Jackson Copeland and Yacel Limonta each recorded multi-hit performances with two hits apiece, while Carl added a hit and a stolen base at the top of the lineup.

On the mound, Vayden Lawrence delivered a dominant start, tossing 7.0 innings while allowing just one run on two hits and striking out seven. He kept Lower Columbia off balance all afternoon and exited with the game tied.

The Red Devils broke through late against the bullpen, scoring three runs over the final two innings to pull away. Pierce was unable to respond, stranding seven runners on the bases.

Game 2: Lower Columbia 6, Pierce 1

Pierce again showed early promise in game two, tying the game 1-1 in the first inning on another sacrifice fly - this time from Tristan Ringrose, scoring Halstead.

Halstead continued his strong day at the plate, going 2-for-3 and scoring the Raiders’ lone run. Christian Dominno, Bradley Carl, and Jackson Copeland each added a hit, with Carl recording a double.

However, Lower Columbia capitalized on key opportunities, scoring six runs on 12 hits, including two home runs.

Starter Freddy Frias-Moreno took the loss, allowing six runs (five earned) over 5.1 innings. The bullpen - Izaiah Koko, Drechen Vinoray-Perreira, and Eddie Winkley—combined to shut out Lower Columbia over the final 3.2 innings, limiting further damage.

Offensively, Pierce was held to five hits and struck out seven times, struggling to generate sustained rallies throughout the game.

Up Next:

Pierce will look to bounce back on the road as they travel to Lower Columbia College on Saturday, March 28 for the second doubleheader of the series. First pitch is scheduled for 12:00pm, with game two set to begin at 3:00pm.