Saint Mary’s Baseball Faces Defeat Against Pepperdine in Conference Opener

MORAGA, Calif. – The Saint Mary’s baseball team experienced a setback in their conference opener, falling to Pepperdine 9-5 in game two of their series on Saturday evening. Despite solid outings from both starting pitchers, the Waves surged in the latter stages of the game, scoring seven runs across their last three at-bats for a decisive victory.

Key Performers for the Gaels

Noteworthy contributions came from several players on the Saint Mary’s roster. Makoa Sniffen led the Gaels with three hits, marking his ninth multi-hit game of the season. Not only did Sniffen achieve this impressive feat, but he also doubled twice, bringing his season total to seven—ranking second on the team. Additionally, Cody Kashimoto extended his hit streak to a season-high 15 games with a two-hit performance. In the third inning, Tanner Griffith launched a two-run home run, giving Saint Mary’s an early lead at 2-0.

Game Summary

Sophomore pitcher Talin Gardini made his first start of the season after transitioning from a bullpen role. Gardini showcased his skills, allowing just one run over five innings of work. The Gaels jumped ahead with Griffith’s homer in the third inning, but the Waves clawed back with a run in the fifth inning, narrowing the deficit to 2-1 as Gardini exited.

In the sixth inning, relief pitcher Noah Waldeck took over but faced tough luck, with a fielding error leading to the tying run being scored on a double play. The game stood at 2-2 heading into the seventh inning.

Pepperdine took control of the matchup by scoring seven runs during their final three at-bats, which included a solo home run from Trey Dunn in the ninth. However, Saint Mary’s refused to surrender, tallying three runs in the final two innings. In a nail-biting finish, the Gaels loaded the bases in the ninth, with Brayden Gutierrez stepping up as a pinch-hitter. Gutierrez managed an RBI single in the eighth, but ultimately grounded out deep into right field for the game’s final out, sealing Pepperdine’s 9-5 victory.

Game Highlights

• Saint Mary’s achieved 10 hits in the ninth inning, marking their 18th instance of reaching double-digit hits this season.
• Sniffen’s standout performance included two doubles, contributing to his impressive season.
• Kashimoto’s remarkable 15-game hit streak remains a key highlight for the Gaels.
• Griffith’s second home run this season brings his career total to five.
• This game marked Gardini’s first start, with a strong showing of one run allowed over five innings.
• Redshirt freshman Max Johnson made his collegiate debut on the mound for the Gaels.

Looking Forward

The series wraps up with a decisive rubber match scheduled for Sunday at 1:00 PM at Luis Guisto Field at Br. Ronald Gallagher Stadium. Fans can purchase tickets online at smcgaels.com/tickets and follow the action live on ESPN+.

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