ALAMOSA, COLORADO — In today's Senior day doubleheader the Grizzlies split the day with CSU Pueblo, winning game one and falling in game two. In game one, the Grizzlies won 11-9, and in game two they fell 10-1. By splitting the day the Grizzlies moved to a record of 11-34(6-21 RMAC) with one final game remaining in their final home series against CSU Pueblo.
Game 1
Adams State put together one of its most complete offensive performances of the season in game one, using a decisive sixth-inning rally to pull away from CSU Pueblo for an 11–9 victory.
The Grizzlies found themselves in a back-and-forth battle early, trailing 6–5 after CSU Pueblo capitalized on consistent pressure through the first four innings. Despite the deficit, Adams State's offense showed signs of breaking through, stringing together quality at-bats and keeping the game within reach. That breakthrough came in the sixth.
With momentum hanging in the balance, the Grizzlies erupted for five runs in the sixth, turning a one-run deficit into a commanding lead. Seth Reker delivered the defining performance of the game, going 3-for-4 with two home runs and six RBIs. His ability to come through in the biggest moment completely shifted the tone and gave Adams State the separation it needed.
Reker wasn't alone in pacing the offense. Isaiah Pruitt sparked the lineup from the top, reaching base three times, scoring three runs, and applying constant pressure on the basepaths. Ryan Vandever added a steady presence in the middle of the order, going 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored, while Gunner Martinez contributed a home run as part of his two-hit day. Ayden Tauscher also made an impact with a triple and two RBIs, continuing the Grizzlies' balanced offensive attack that produced 11 hits and consistent traffic on the bases.
On the mound, Adams State pieced together a gritty effort. Starter Osaias Hinojosa navigated four innings against a tough Pueblo lineup, keeping the Grizzlies within striking distance despite allowing six runs. Connor Kerns entered in relief and delivered a key performance, working 2.2 innings to earn the win. While Pueblo threatened late, Kerns limited the damage and gave the offense time to build its lead. Daniel Hoodak closed the door in the final moments, earning the save and securing the win for Adams State.
CSU Pueblo mounted a late push, scoring three runs to tighten the game, but the Grizzlies' explosive sixth inning proved to be the difference. In a game defined by momentum swings, Adams State's timely hitting and ability to capitalize in key moments ultimately carried them to the 11–9 victory.
Game 2
In game two, Adams State couldn't overcome an early deficit, falling 10–1 to Colorado State-Pueblo, but the Grizzlies showed a few key bright spots throughout the game.
After surrendering six runs in the first two innings, Adams State was forced to play from behind the rest of the way. Despite the early hole, the pitching staff found some stability as the game progressed. Ethan Bertke delivered a solid outing out of the bullpen, allowing just one earned run over 3.1 innings while striking out three, and CJ Pino followed with 1.2 innings of relief, giving up just one unearned run and adding three strikeouts to help limit further damage.
Offensively, Seth Reker led the way with a strong performance, going 2-for-3 and blasting a solo home run for the Grizzlies' only run of the game. Ayden Tauscher continued to set the tone at the top of the lineup, finishing 2-for-3 and consistently putting pressure on the defense. Isaiah Pruitt and Macs Carrillo each contributed a hit as Adams State totaled six on the day.
While the Grizzlies were unable to string together big innings, they showed signs of competitiveness at the plate against a tough Pueblo starter, and the bullpen's effort helped keep the game from getting further out of reach.
Ultimately, the early surge from Colorado State-Pueblo proved too much to overcome, but Adams State's individual performances and steadier play late offered some positives moving into tomorrow's series finale game.
Adams State turns the page to one final opportunity at home on Sunday, closing out its series against CSU Pueblo with a noon first pitch. The matchup carries weight far beyond a typical series finale, as the Grizzlies aim to secure a split and keep their postseason hopes firmly within reach. With just five games left on the schedule, every inning now matters. Adams State remains in the hunt for a third consecutive berth in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Baseball Tournament, and a win on Sunday would be a critical step forward in that pursuit. A series split against a tough ThunderWolves squad would not only steady momentum but also reinforce the urgency needed heading into the final stretch. Come out to support the Grizzlies as they will seek to win an important game tomorrow.
