The DBU Patriots rolled into the Frisco Classic sporting an impeccable 8-0 record and left with an impressive 10-1, demonstrating their strength both at the plate and on the mound. Ranked #25 by D1Baseball, DBU showed they’re not just participating; they’re contending.
The Patriots opened the Classic with a nail-biter against Arizona, edging out a 4-3 victory that set the tone for their weekend.
Despite a minor hiccup against Indiana, losing 7-8 in a clash that could’ve gone either way, the Patriots were undeterred. Indiana, ranked #20, proved a formidable opponent but was just a prelude to the main event: DBU vs. Alabama.
The matchup against #16 Alabama was billed as the highlight of the Classic, and it didn’t disappoint. RHP James Ellwanger, known for his blistering fastballs that have touched the 100 mph mark, started for DBU. Although he had to exit early in the 3rd inning due to an apparent injury, his performance set the stage for a bullpen battle.
DBU’s relief corps was a mixed bag of magic and mayhem. C. Benge and D. Haines navigated through choppy waters before C. Mackay steadied the ship with a stellar 4-inning stint, setting up T. Schott’s striking side in the penultimate frame. Closer Nick Wilson, with ice in his veins, notched his second save of the Classic, showcasing the depth and versatility of DBU’s pitching staff.
At the dish, the Patriots were equally formidable. Catcher Grant Jay and C. Krauss turned Riders Field into their personal highlight reel, combining for three homers and five RBIs between them. Jay’s two home runs combined went almost 1,000 feet. Their power display was a crucial factor in their success, demonstrating DBU’s high-powered offense.
Adding a moment of brilliance on the field, DBU’s SS Luke Heefner dazzled fans with an outstanding over-the-shoulder basket catch in left field, a display of defensive prowess. Not content with just shining defensively, Heefner also lit up the base paths, swiping home with a perfectly executed steal, showcasing his all-around game.
On the other side, Alabama’s lineup showed they could swing it with the best of them, with Sleight and SS Justin Lebron sending balls out of the park. However, their efforts weren’t enough to overcome DBU’s relentless pressure.
LHP Greg Farone started for Alabama, holding DBU to two runs over four innings, but it was George’s 100 mph darts that caught everyone’s attention, despite Alabama ultimately falling short.
As the dust settles on the Frisco Classic, the DBU Patriots have made a statement. Their 2-1 performance, capped by a victory over a strong Alabama team, has undoubtedly turned heads.
DBU hit 8 home runs over the Frisco Classic.
With the updated college rankings on the horizon, DBU’s blend of explosive offense and resilient pitching has them poised for a rise.
As for the Patriots, they leave Frisco with more than just wins; they leave with the confirmation that they’re a force to be reckoned with. The road to the College World Series is long and winding, but DBU has shown they have the map and the mettle to navigate it.
