The Portland Pilots lost the final game of their series against the Niagara Purple Eagles, falling 3-1 at home. Despite this loss, the Pilots secured the overall series victory and now hold a 4-6 record for the season.
Freshman pitcher Will Labonte started for Portland and delivered five scoreless innings, allowing four hits and striking out two batters. Labonte has not allowed a run in his first 14.2 collegiate innings, making him the first Pilot freshman since Zach Johnson in 2023 to go three outings without giving up a run. He is also noted as the only Pilot true freshman in at least two decades to pitch his first 14 innings without surrendering a run.
Alex Via pitched three innings in relief, conceding one unearned run on one hit while striking out four. Trey Newmann threw an inning and gave up two runs, with only one being earned. Grady Keljo was charged with the loss after his inherited runner scored.
Portland’s offense managed just two hits during the game. Jonas Salk and Gage Bruce were responsible for those hits, with Bruce driving in Salk for Portland’s only run in the second inning.
Niagara tied the game in the eighth inning following an error by Portland. In the ninth inning, Noah Konings hit a two-run home run to secure Niagara’s win.
Bruce and Salk each finished 1-for-3 at bat, with Bruce recording an RBI and Salk scoring once. The Pilots will remain at home for their next matchup—a four-game series against Holy Cross Crusaders starting Thursday, March 5.
For tickets to upcoming games or more information about University of Portland athletics programs, fans can visit PortlandPilots.com.
