MERIDIAN, Miss. – The Meridian Community College Eagles took care of business at home Friday, sweeping Holmes Community College in a conference doubleheader at Scaggs Field. The wins lift MCC to 21-13 overall and 8-4 in MACCC play heading into a highly anticipated matchup against #2 Pearl River on Tuesday.

Eagles Ride Strong Pitching to 3-1 Victory

Runs were at a premium in the opener, but the Eagles made the most of their opportunities, defeating the Bulldogs 3-1 behind a stellar outing from Connor Gehr. Gehr worked six innings, allowing just one run on four hits while striking out eight.

The bottom of the lineup sparked the offense, with Brett Busbea, Brayden Martin, and Doby Bartling combining for five of MCC's nine hits and driving in two of the team's three runs. Busbea delivered a double down the left field line in the second inning to tie the game, and Bartling followed with a groundout that brought in the go-ahead run.

Meridian's bullpen was lights-out, with Vaiden Ellis, Joel Smith, and Hunter Parker combining to shut down Holmes over the final three innings. The Eagles were flawless in the field, committing no errors and turning a key double play. Catcher Chris Fox anchored the defense with a team-high nine putouts.

Offensive Firepower Lifts Eagles to 9-6 Win

In the nightcap, MCC's bats came alive in a 9-6 victory. After falling behind early, the Eagles surged ahead in the third inning when Harlin Hovater singled in a run and Tyrus Williams launched a three-run homer to left field.

Fox added to the lead with a solo shot in the fifth, followed by Brennon Wright's solo homer in the sixth. Hovater finished the game 3-for-4 with three RBIs, while Williams also drove in three runs. Gehr added two stolen bases to cap off an all-around team effort.

Andrew Prejean picked up the win on the mound, striking out seven over five innings. Aiden Tuura closed things out in relief to secure the sweep. The Eagles turned another crisp double play and continued their strong defensive showing.

Meridian returns to Scaggs Field Tuesday, April 1, for a marquee doubleheader against nationally ranked #2 Pearl River Community College. First pitch is set for 3 p.m. as the Eagles look to keep the momentum rolling in MACCC play.