(Dubuque, Iowa)- The Peru State Baseball Team split with the Clarke Pride in a four game series on Friday and Saturday afternoon. The Bobcats are now 4-8 in the Heart of America Conference and 9-15 overall.
 
Game 1 (Peru State 12 – Clarke 27)
 
The Bobcats witnessed noteworthy performances from several players in game 1. Antonio Benitez and Gustavo Rivera both homered during the game, with Rivera notably hitting a grand slam to right center in the second inning, marking one of the key moments for Peru State. Benitez also contributed to the score with two runs and two RBIs. Jonas Meairs-Richman and Kutty George joined the action scoring two runs each, while Jackson Lynch and Xavier Solla added a run and an RBI apiece.
 
Dylan Pavletich started on the mound for the Bobcats in this crucial league encounter but faced a potent Clarke lineup. Pavletich only allowed seven hits and had two strikeouts in the game.
 
Game 2 (Peru State 7 – Clarke 24)

Despite the loss, several Bobcats players made notable contributions. Antonio Benitez, joined by Jonas Meairs-Richman, Gustavo Rivera, Jomar Perez, Garrett Pavletich, Kutty George, Jackson Lynch, Derek Rios, Liam Kerr, Jakob Richter, and L. Michel, each ensured the Bobcats added to the scoreboard. The RBIs came from the bats of Jonas Meairs-Richman, Gustavo Rivera, Jomar Perez, Garrett Pavletich, and Kutty George. Notably, Gustavo Rivera also hit a home run, marking a high point in the Bobcats' offensive efforts.

Starting pitcher Derek Rios led the pitching effort for Peru State but faced a tough Clarke lineup. Rios had five strikeouts and only allowed six hits in game 2.
 
Game 3 (Peru State 8 – Clarke 3)
 
From the outset, the Bobcats took charge, initiating the scoring barrage with two runs in the first inning. Key players like Jomar Perez and Garrett Pavletich were instrumental, each knocking in RBI singles, setting a strong pace for the game. The momentum continued into the fifth inning, where Peru State extended their lead by another three runs. This inning was highlighted by Kutty George's strategic sacrifice fly and Airam Betancourt's timely RBI single, consolidating the Bobcats' dominance.

Notably, Jomar Perez and Garrett Pavletich stood out throughout the game. Perez finished with two runs scored and one RBI, while Pavletich contributed significantly with two runs, one RBI, and a double, showcasing his all-around skills in crucial moments. The Bobcats also benefitted from outstanding performances by their players who scored runs including Jackson Lynch, Gustavo Rivera, Josh Schaller, and Xavier Solla, alongside notable RBI contributors like Kutty George and Airam Betancourt.

Kevin Diaz, as the starting pitcher, played a pivotal role in maintaining the lead and controlling the Pride's hitters effectively. 
 
Game 4 (Peru State 0 – Clarke 1)
 
The Bobcats showcased strong defensive and pitching performances, particularly from starter Casey Ogden who pitched 5.2 innings, allowing only 4 hits and zero earned runs.

Key offensive contributions came from Antonio Benitez, who stood out with his remarkable performance at the plate, hitting 3 for 4. Gustavo Rivera and Garrett Pavletich each also added a hit in the game.
 
Next: The Bobcats will play Bellevue University on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The Bobcats will play one game at Bellevue on Friday and Sunday and will play a doubleheader on Saturday at home.