'Tops Take 3 of 4 in Weekend Series Over Terra State

The Cuyahoga Community College Triceratops put together a strong weekend, taking three of four games from Terra State, showcasing offensive firepower, resilience, and timely pitching across the series.

TRI-C opened the weekend with a 9-5 victory at Ron Mottl Field, Friday evening, using a massive third inning to take control. After trading blows early, the 'Tops erupted for seven runs in the third, highlighted by a grand slam from Nash Driedger (Fr.) that broke the game open. The offense piled up 12 hits, with multiple players contributing multi-hit efforts. On the mound, Keagan Gilbride (So.) was dominant in relief, striking out five over 2.1 scoreless innings to secure the win.

Game two proved to be a tight, low-scoring battle, with TRI-C falling 3-2 despite outhitting Terra State. Nate Hill (So.) led the offensive effort with two hits and two RBIs, including an RBI double in the first inning. Caleb Obee (So.) turned in a solid start, striking out six over four innings, but Terra State capitalized early and held the narrow advantage throughout.

The 'Tops bounced back in a big way on Saturday afternoon, rolling to a 12-1 win behind an explosive offensive performance. TRI-C broke the game open with a seven-run second inning and never looked back. Joey Lehner (So.) led the charge with four RBIs, while Vinny Gallaher (So.) delivered a strong outing on the mound, allowing just one run over five innings with seven strikeouts. The defense was equally sharp, playing error-free baseball.

In the series finale, TRI-C delivered its most impressive performance of the weekend, storming back from an early 5-0 deficit to defeat Terra State 19-8. The 'Tops' offense erupted for 19 hits and showcased relentless pressure on the basepaths, swiping 10 bases in the game. Hill sparked the comeback with a home run, while Brayden Bortnick (Fr.) led the way with three hits. Seven different players drove in two runs, highlighting the depth of the lineup. After a tough first inning, the bullpen settled in, with Luke Healan (Fr.) earning the win and key relief appearances from Spencer Mueller (So.) and Mason Wolf (So.) shutting the door.

Across the four-game set, the Triceratops displayed their identity—relentless offense, aggressive baserunning, and the ability to respond when challenged.

TRI-C now turns its attention to a road matchup against Allegany College of Maryland as they continue a demanding stretch of eight games in five days, looking to carry their momentum into the next phase of the season.