FRESNO, Calif. — In the home opener, Fresno Pacific baseball fell to Western Oregon in the first game of the series. The Sunbirds were overrun in the first few innings by the Wolves, but managed to keep WOU scoreless for the remainder of the game.

In the first inning, Western Oregon quickly secured a 4-0 lead, highlighted by a two-run homer. The Sunbirds held off the Wolves to best of their ability until a three-run homer extended WOU's lead in the third inning, pushing their advantage to 7-0. The 'Birds managed to get on base with a single from Eric Wilson, but a double play ended their efforts to score.

The fourth inning saw Western Oregon capitalize on errors and free bases, scoring 10 runs overall. The inning included another three-run homer and several runs scored on walks and hit-by-pitches. This brought the score to 17-0 in favor of Western Oregon. Hoping to change the tide, Fresno Pacific's first baseman Titus Wheelock hit a double in the bottom of the fourth, but the Wolves stopped the Sunbirds before they could bring him home.

In the latter innings, the Sunbirds' bullpen managed to hold Western Oregon scoreless, with Josh Nixon delivering three innings of hitless relief, striking out four. However, Western Oregon's early lead led to the 17-0 victory for the Wolves.

Gabe Henderson recorded one hit, a stolen base, and contributed two assists while playing shortstop. Wheelock finished with a hit, a double, and also drew a walk in his two plate appearances. Chris Clement added a double and a sacrifice fly, showing versatility at the plate. Nixon delivered a strong performance on the mound, pitching three innings without allowing a hit and striking out four batters.

NEXT UP: The 'Birds continue the home series against Western Oregon with a doubleheader on Friday! The start times are 2 pm and 5 pm. Come down to Dan Martin Stadium to cheer on your Sunbirds!

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