FORT SMITH, Ark. — Missouri Southern baseball (18-11, 13-6 MIAA) dominated Arkansas Fort Smith (4-24, 3-16 MIAA) with a decisive 12-2 victory Saturday at Crowder Field. The game was highlighted by a six-run sixth inning from MSSU, contributing to its commanding run-rule win.
With the victory, MSSU improves to 18-11 in 2026 and 13-6 in MIAA action. The Lions also grabbed the series on Arkansas Fort Smith ahead of Sunday's series finale.
UAFS initially took control with a two-run second inning, highlighted by Connor Earleywine's RBI triple.
However, MSSU seized momentum in the third, starting with
Jason Lazo's walk and a productive groundout by
Aiden Hinkle.
Brayden Luikart's single to right center brought Lazo home, and Luikart later scored on
Will Doherty's RBI single. The rally continued as
Jacob Filip's double and
Ethan Clark's single added two more runs, giving Missouri Southern a 4-2 lead.
The sixth inning proved decisive as the Lions capitalized on defensive miscues and timely hitting to extend their advantage.
Jake Leeker and Lazo reached base, setting up a wild pitch that scored Leeker. Doherty's RBI single and a fielding error allowed the Lions to score three unearned runs.
Cy Darnell and Clark contributed with productive outs and a stolen base, widening the gap to 10-2.
Southern's relentless pressure in the seventh, including Doherty's two-run double, sealed the outcome, thwarting any chance of a comeback from Arkansas Fort Smith.
Will Doherty led the offensive charge with three hits and four RBI, including a double. Luikart added to the scoring with two runs and contributed three walks, enhancing his team's opportunities on base. Lazo made an impact by scoring three runs and stealing a base, keeping the pressure on the defense. Clark contributed with two hits and two RBI, providing crucial support in the lineup.
Michael Mulhollon (2-2 in 2026) pitched four innings, allowing two earned runs on two hits, while striking out five batters. He managed to keep his WHIP at 1.00 and picked off a runner during his outing.
Jackson Gamble contributed an inning of scoreless relief, striking out one and allowing no hits.
Gabe Perry also pitched an inning, giving up two hits but no runs, maintaining a strong strike-to-pitch ratio with 11 strikes out of 13 pitches.
Colin Muldoon closed the game with a hitless inning, inducing a pair of groundouts and a flyout.
MSSU next concludes its three-game series at UAFS Sunday. First pitch is 1 p.m., CT.
Arvest Bank is the season-presenting sponsor for Missouri Southern baseball.
