TUSKEGEE, AL | The Morehouse Maroon Tigers and the Tuskegee Golden Tigers battled in a competitive SIAC doubleheader on Saturday, with each team claiming a victory to split the series. Morehouse struck first in Game One, using a powerful offensive performance to secure a 15-8 win, highlighted by a grand slam from Elijah Pinckney. However, Tuskegee bounced back in Game Two, capitalizing on key home runs from Scott Williams and John Saffold to hold off a late Morehouse rally for a 7-5 victory. 

GAME ONE - MOREHOUSE 18, TUSKEGEE 8

Morehouse Powers Past Tuskegee in Game One of Doubleheader

The Morehouse Maroon Tigers delivered an offensive explosion on Saturday evening, defeating the Tuskegee Golden Tigers 15-8 in the first game of their SIAC doubleheader. Fueled by four home runs and a relentless offensive attack, Morehouse outpaced their opponents in a high-scoring contest.

The Maroon Tigers struck early, plating a run in each of the first three innings. A pivotal four-run fourth inning was punctuated by Robinson's two-run homer and clutch hits from McLean and Chapman, giving Morehouse a comfortable lead.  Tuskegee responded in the fifth, scoring three runs off a triple by Morrow and a sacrifice fly by Lee to cut the deficit to 8-6. However, Morehouse pulled away in the eighth inning, when Pinckney's grand slam blew the game open. While Morehouse had some defensive struggles, committing three errors, their offensive production proved to be too much for Tuskegee to overcome.

Shortstop Elijah Pinckney led the charge, going 2-for-3 with a home run and a team-high five RBIs. His grand slam in the eighth inning was the decisive blow that put the game out of reach. Catcher Robert Robinson added to the power display, launching two home runs, driving in three runs, and scoring twice. Outfielder Raymond Jenkins also had a strong outing, contributing three hits, including a home run, while scoring three runs. Elijah James put together an impressive performance at the plate, finishing 4-for-6 with two doubles and two RBIs.

Morehouse's Julian Goodman earned the win, allowing two runs on four hits over five innings, striking out two. Cameron Solomon started for the Maroon Tigers, giving up six earned runs in four innings while striking out three.

GAME TWO -  TUSKEGEE 7, MOREHOUSE 5

Tuskegee Outlasts Morehouse in Game Two Thriller

The Tuskegee Golden Tigers capitalized on timely hitting and late-game execution to edge the Morehouse Maroon Tigers 7-5 in the second game of their SIAC doubleheader on Saturday night. Despite a strong offensive showing from Morehouse, Tuskegee used a balanced attack and a steady pitching performance to claim the win.

The Maroon Tigers struck first in the third inning when Robinson blasted a two-run homer to center, giving Morehouse a 2-1 lead. However, Tuskegee responded immediately, with Saffold's solo shot tying the game in the bottom of the frame. Tuskegee took control in the middle innings. Williams' two-run homer in the fifth broke a 2-2 tie, while Lee's sacrifice fly later in the inning extended the lead. A wild pitch in the sixth inning gifted Tuskegee another insurance run, making it 7-2. Morehouse staged a rally in the seventh, loading the bases with one out. James lined a three-run single up the middle, bringing Morehouse within two, but the Golden Tigers turned a game-ending double play to seal the victory.

Elijah Pinckney led the charge for Morehouse, going 4-for-4 with a triple and scoring two runs. Robert Robinson provided a major spark with a two-run home run in the third inning and also drew three walks. Elijah James added a two-RBI single in the seventh inning to give Morehouse a late push. Vernon Clay delivered a solid 2-for-3 performance with a walk.

Morehouse starter Noah Grayson (L, 0-1) allowed six earned runs on eight hits over five innings, striking out three. Ian Makle pitched one inning of relief, giving up an unearned run.

OUTLOOK

With the doubleheader split, expect an exciting rubber match on Sunday. Morehouse's explosive 15-8 win in Game One proved their ability to pile on runs in bunches, while Tuskegee's 7-5 victory in Game Two highlighted their resilience and timely hitting. As both teams look to claim the series, the rubber match will test their pitching depth and defensive execution. Morehouse will aim to bounce back and take the series on the road, while Tuskegee looks to ride its momentum and defend home field. For up-to-date athletic information on the Maroon Tigers, follow them on social media or online at www.morehouseathletics.com.