Spartans Clinch Eighth AMC Baseball Title in Commanding Fashion

O'FALLON, Mo. - The Missouri Baptist University Spartans secured their second consecutive American Midwest Conference (AMC) Baseball Tournament title and their eighth overall with a dominant 16-5 victory in seven innings over the Columbia College Cougars. With the win, MBU extended its winning streak to 20 games.

The Spartans needed just three games to claim the title, defeating Central Baptist 4-1 before posting two decisive seven-inning wins over Columbia (11-1, 16-5).

The Spartans close out the tournament with a 40-9 record on the season and 31-5 in AMC play.

The Cougars wrapped up their tournament appearance with a 41-9 overall record and 31-5 in conference play.

James Jett led the team offensively, going 3-for-5 with a home run, double, and six RBIs, while crossing the plate four times.

Leadoff hitter Dominic Palma set the tone early with a double, two walks, and two RBIs, scoring four runs and adding a stolen base to his stats.

Jayden Orozco launched a key three-run home run and added a sacrifice fly to total four RBIs.

Blayne Yarger chipped in with two hits, an RBI, and two runs scored.

Cole Robinson remained perfect at the plate, going 2-for-2 with a walk.

Jakob Kouneski added two RBIs, including a sacrifice fly.

Columbia's Catcher Tyler Renn led the offense with a 2-for-4 day, including a triple and one RBI. Jack Matousek added a home run, finishing 2-for-3 with three RBIs and a run scored. Chase McKague went 2-for-3 and scored a run.

Sam Myers (W, 7-1) tossed 6.0 innings, allowing eight hits and five earned runs. JD Whitter closed it out with a clean 1.0 inning of relief, striking out one without allowing a hit or walk.

Combined, the pitching staff went 7.0 innings, giving up just one walk and striking out seven, holding the Cougars to only five runs on eight hits.

The Spartans outhit the Cougars, 13-8.

After earning a share of the AMC regular-season title, Missouri Baptist and Columbia now await their opponents in the NAIA National Tournament. The official NAIA Selection Show is scheduled for Wednesday, May 7, at 3:58 p.m. and will be streamed live on the NAIA YouTube channel.