Palomar Falls to Saddleback in Non-Conference Finale, 11-8

SAN MARCOS, CA (2/25/2025) -- The Palomar College baseball team wrapped up its non-conference schedule on Tuesday with a hard-fought 11-8 loss to Saddleback College at home. Despite multiple comeback attempts, the Comets couldn't overcome an early deficit as the Bobcats' offense proved too much to handle.

Offensive Battle from the Start

Palomar (8-6) struck first with two runs in the opening inning, as Brendan Shanahan tripled and later scored, followed by an RBI single from TK Madera. However, Saddleback responded quickly, putting up two runs in the second and one in the third to take a 3-2 lead.

The Comets regained the lead in the bottom of the third when Hunter Stencil came through with a bases-clearing three-run double, giving Palomar a 4-3 advantage. But the lead was short-lived, as Saddleback erupted for four runs in the fourth and three more in the fifth, stretching their lead to 10-6.

Despite trailing, Palomar continued to battle. Gavin Malcomson drove in a run in the seventh, and Hunter Stencil added another RBI in the eighth, cutting the deficit to 11-8. However, the Comets were unable to push across any more runs as Saddleback's bullpen shut the door.

Pitching Struggles and Relief Efforts

Palomar's pitching staff faced a tough day, allowing 11 runs on 11 hits, including a home run by Jacob Beauchaine.

• Tait Karlson (0-1) took the loss, giving up two runs in two innings.
• Michael Getzinger and Chance Crawford each surrendered multiple runs in relief.
• Noah Benavides provided a bright spot, tossing two scoreless innings to finish the game.

Key Performances

• Brendan Shanahan: 3-for-4, 3B, 2 runs, RBI
• Hunter Stencil: 1-for-3, 2B, 4 RBIs
• TK Madera: 1-for-4, RBI
• Gavin Malcomson: 1-for-1, RBI
• Noah Benavides: 2.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 2 K

Looking Ahead

With non-conference play in the books, Palomar (8-6) now shifts its focus to conference action as it looks to build momentum for the rest of the season.