After a frustrating offensive outing the previous night, the Corvallis Knights returned strong with a decisive 10-3 victory over the Cowlitz Black Bears on June 27 at Goss Stadium. With the Knights’ hitting returning to normalcy, the runs were plenty.
Head Coach Brooke Knight expressed his satisfaction with the team’s turnaround, stating, “The last couple of days, yesterday specifically, we did not swing very well at all. Credit to the guys they had on the bump, but it was really nice to see our guys getting the hits today and stringing hits together, to get their confidence back. Putting those early runs on the board was really nice. I thought DeCremer did a great job, he’s a bulldog out there.”
The Knights wasted no time asserting their dominance, scoring four runs in a productive first inning. Blake Wilson led off with a single, followed by Kasen Khansarinia and Kevin Takeuchi reaching on an error, allowing Wilson to score. Luke Lavin added a single, driving in two runs, and Thomas Ferroggiaro contributed an RBI single to cap off the inning.
The Knights continued their offensive onslaught in the second inning with three more runs. Khansarinia hit an RBI double, and Takeuchi added an RBI double of his own. Brandon Cabrera, who returned from an injury, contributed with a two-run double later in the game, showcasing the depth of the Knights’ lineup.
James DeCremer started strong on the mound, pitching 3.2 innings and allowing only one run on three hits while striking out five. Mason Goodson followed with two innings of relief, giving up two runs on four hits. Garren Rizzo closed the game with 2.1 scoreless innings, striking out two and earning the win.
Reflecting on player development throughout the season, Coach Knight praised Kevin Takeuchi, saying, “He plays a solid third base, good outfield, but he’s just really reliable at the plate.”
Defensively, the Knights used key plays from their outfielders and infielders to support their pitchers. The team capitalized on Cowlitz’s errors early in the game and maintained their lead with effective pitching and timely hitting.
Looking forward, the Knights aim to carry this momentum into upcoming games as they continue their quest for the South Division championship and a postseason berth. They hold a 20-5 record in the West Coast League, positioning themselves firmly for the playoffs.
Next, the Knights will face the Cascade Collegiate League Showcase Team in non-league home games on June 28 and 29. These games do not count in the league standings but provide an opportunity to showcase local talent and more home games for Knights fans.
As the season progresses, the Knights remain focused on securing another championship and adding to their dynastic legacy of 10 championships with an 11th. With strong leadership, a talented roster, and unwavering support from their fans, the Knights are poised to make a significant impact in the West Coast League this season.