Bedard’s Big Bat Leads Kats to Doubleheader Split with Genesee

Erie CC Kats earned a split in Tuesday's doubleheader against Genesee Community College, using a powerful offensive showing in game one before falling short in the nightcap.

The Kats opened the day with a 10-6 victory, fueled by a clutch performance from Zack Bedard. Bedard drove in four runs on two hits, highlighted by a three-run home run in the first inning that immediately put Erie in control. He followed with an RBI single in the second to cap a fast start.

Erie continued to apply pressure early, adding three runs in the second inning with contributions from Elijah Williams and Bedard, along with a Genesee error. The Kats extended the lead again in the third when Jaxsyn Moritz delivered an RBI single and Tyler Pagano showcased aggressive baserunning by stealing home.

Nick Gold earned the win on the mound, going five innings while allowing five runs and striking out two. Rafael Smith added relief work to help secure the victory. Erie's offense totaled 12 hits, with Moritz, Bedard, Pagano, and Williams each collecting two. The Kats were also aggressive on the basepaths, swiping five bases, and turned two double plays defensively.

In game two, Erie couldn't replicate that momentum, falling 4-1 despite solid pitching and clean defense.

Genesee struck early with a three-run first inning and never relinquished control. Zac Chrystian provided Erie's lone highlight at the plate with a solo home run in the second inning. Nolan Nobile led the Kats with two hits, but the offense struggled to string together rallies.

Joe Downey took the loss after allowing three runs in the opening inning, while Tony Weber provided a steady relief effort, giving up just one run over three innings. Defensively, Erie remained sharp, committing no errors, with Jim Buettner leading the way in the field.

The Kats will host SUNY Niagara for a pair of of games on Thursday with game one scheduled to start at 2:00 pm.