NEWARK, N.J. — Rutgers-Newark and Ramapo split a conference doubleheader on Saturday, with the Scarlet Raiders dropping a tight opener before responding with a dominant shutout in the nightcap.
Game 1 proved to be a pitcher's duel, with both teams locked in a scoreless battle into the later innings. Ramapo broke through in the eighth with two runs to take the lead. Rutgers-Newark made things interesting in the bottom of the ninth, pushing across a run and threatening to extend the game, but ultimately fell just short in a 2-1 decision.
Joseph Bernardo, RJ Kernan, and Malik Little each recorded two hits to pace the Scarlet Raiders offensively in the opener, providing consistent production throughout the lineup despite the narrow loss.
Rutgers-Newark bounced back in a big way in Game 2, using a complete team effort to secure an 8-0 shutout victory. The Scarlet Raiders jumped out early and never looked back, while the offense continued to produce throughout the contest.
Reid Duffus led the way at the plate with a standout performance, going for four hits and scoring twice. Malik Little added to the offensive surge with two hits, two RBIs, and a run scored.
On the mound, Joshua Warming and Luke Hagen combined for the shutout. Warming earned the win after delivering seven strong innings, allowing just three hits while striking out five batters. Hagen closed the door in the final two innings, not allowing a hit and striking out two to seal the victory.
Rutgers-Newark will look to carry the momentum from the Game 2 victory into its next NJAC game against Stockton on Thursday, April 23rd.
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