McMINNVILLE, Ore. – The Bushnell University baseball team brought the energy on Tuesday night, using late scoring to win the non-conference battle at Linfield University, 10-6.
 
The Beacons scored six runs over the final two innings, highlighted by a home run off the bat of CJ Smith. Smith, who is often utilized as a pinch runner, made his first at-bat of the year a memorable one, sending the two-run homer to dead center in the top of the ninth.
 
Smith said, "First off, I want to give all glory to God. Then, I want to thank my teammates and coaches for always believing in me and giving me opportunities to succeed. Go Beacs!"
 
Jameson Hussey broke a 4-4 tie in the top of the eighth with a single to left field, the only hit in the four-run inning. Isaiah Hart and Cade Crist scored on the play with Crist crossing home on an error by the left fielder. Smith, who pinch ran for Hussey, scored on a passed ball and Jacob Stoner brought home Max Richards with a sacrifice fly to conclude the four-run frame.
 
Smith stayed in the game in the ninth, sending his shot over the center field fence to record his first collegiate homer and bring the score to 10-4.
 
Bushnell used eight pitchers, who combined to allow nine hits. Blake Stavros got the start, tossing two innings and the next seven threw one inning each. Garrett Vohs (1-1) was credited with the win after throwing a scoreless seventh.
 
Stavros said, "It was great to get the start today. The energy from the dugout when I first got up there was electric. It will be something I never forget."
 
Jake Hoskins, Wyatt Hurley and Trent Wainfeld had two hits each for Linfield (18-17).

Up Next: Bushnell takes on No. 8 Lewis-Clark State College to conclude the regular season. The Beacons, who clinched their first postseason appearance, will compete in the CCC Tournament on May 4-6.