Loyola Marymount University and Gonzaga split the initial two games of their weekend baseball series in Los Angeles. Gonzaga secured a 5-4 win Friday before Loyola Marymount responded with a 7-1 victory Saturday.
Friday's matchup saw Gonzaga claim a narrow victory. Gonzaga's offense broke a 4-4 tie in the sixth inning with an RBI single by Sam Stem. Loyola Marymount's hitters collected 11 hits but were held scoreless over the final six innings. Zion Williams had four hits for LMU in the loss.
Gonzaga pitchers Finbar O'Brien earned the win and Erik Hoffberg recorded the save Friday. Adam Behrens took the loss for LMU in relief after Kenji Pallares started the game. Fans could watch the game live on ESPN+.
In Saturday's game two, Loyola Marymount took control early. They scored three runs in the first inning and went on to a 7-1 victory, evening the series. Gonzaga's only run came on an RBI groundout by Sam Stem in the fourth inning. The Lions secured the win at Page Stadium.
Avery Laine pitched seven innings for Loyola Marymount, allowing one run and earning the win. Gonzaga starter Miles Gosztola took the loss.
Both teams compete in the West Coast Conference. Gonzaga's record stands at 21-22 overall and 12-5 in WCC play after Saturday's game. They remain tied for first place in the conference standings and have qualified for the WCC Tournament. Loyola Marymount's record moved to 24-23 overall and 11-9 in WCC play.
The series concludes Sunday with game three. First pitch is scheduled for 1 p.m.
