MLC splits Texas twinbill

KEENE, Texas -- The Martin Luther Knights got their 2001 baseball season under way Wednesday, splitting a nonconference doubleheader with Southwestern Adventist. Southwestern Adventist took the first game 3-1 and MLC won the second, 9-4.

Andy Mueller took the loss for the Knights in the first game. Mueller worked six innings, surrendering three runs -- all earned -- on four hits. He struck out five and walked four.

Shane Krause and and Mike Kuschel each went 1-for-3 for MLC. Krause got a double and Kuschel drove in the Knights' only run.

In the second game, MLC's offense came alive with four players recording at least two hits. The Knights had 13 hits off Southwestern Adventist (7-3) pitching in the game.

Micah Martin went 3-for-5 with a double and four RBI to lead MLC. Kuschel, Sam Degner and Seth Fitzsimmons each collected two hits with each hitting a double and driving in a run for the Knights.

Chris Rathje went the distance in the seven-inning game. Rathje fanned 13 and gave up just two walks, allowing seven hits and four runs -- three earned.

MLC (1-1) will travel to Marshall, Texas, for a nonconference game with Wiley today.