SYRACUSE, N.Y. – It was a cool and clear summer day at Onondaga Community College for a prime doubleheader between the Syracuse Spartans and the Olean Oilers. In a matchup that was much anticipated from the necessary rescheduling due to wildfire smoke early in the season, the two sides were eager to get to it. Both sides faced off against one another for the first time this season as well with this being an inter-division game. After two hard-fought games from the Spartans, it was the Oilers who came out on top in a two-game sweep.

Game one witnessed an early surge from the Olean Oilers, with Chase Fischer’s grand slam propelling them to a commanding 6-0 lead over the Spartans by the top of the 3rd. Despite their uphill battle, the Spartans showcased resilience, with Wade Lawson delivering an impressive performance on the mound. Lawson pitched four innings, allowing only four hits, one run, and one walk, while striking out four batters. His performance allowed the Spartans to maintain hope in a game where the bats struggled to find consistency. Still, the Spartans’ offensive struggles proved to be their downfall, resulting in a 7-2 loss.

In game two, both teams traded early runs, with Brendan Flynn driving in a run for the Spartans in the first inning scoring Robert Johnston. Syracuse managed to score singular runs in the first three innings, securing a 3-2 lead. However, a crucial fourth inning proved to be a turning point as the Oilers struck back, scoring three runs and taking the lead. Despite Joe Wike’s efforts, who singled and scored on a wild pitch in the seventh inning, the Spartans’ rally fell short, and they suffered a 7-4 defeat against the resilient Oilers. Patrick May was also a positive story of the second game, earning player of the game (POTG) by going 2-2 with a walk, his first POTG performance of the season.

While the outcomes were not in their favor, the Spartans remain poised and determined as they are set for the season’s final stretch. This a stretch that is certainly going to demand perseverance and the highest levels of effort if they hope to secure the second wild-card spot. Despite the overall challenges they faced, the players showed individual successes. However, the offensive struggles ultimately hindered the Spartans’ ability to secure victories on the day. The offense will surely be on the bounce-back radar as the offense always seems to put it together. No doubt with a playoff spot becoming more and more on the line we can expect to see a mental toughness from these Spartans like no other.

Looking ahead, the Syracuse Spartans will have an opportunity to regroup with a win as they prepare for their next game. They will face the Sherrill Silversmiths at home on Thursday, June 13^th at the Onondaga Community College Sports Complex. The first pitch is set for 7:00 PM EST. Fans can watch to the Spartans’ live broadcast by visiting our website, https://syracusespartans.com/live/.