MISENHEIMER, N.C. (April 18, 2026) — Methodist erupted for 13 runs over the final three innings to pull away from Pfeiffer in a 19-5 USA South Conference victory on a hot Saturday afternoon at Joe Ferebee Field.

The Monarchs broke open a close game with a four-run fifth inning and continued to pile on, scoring five runs in the seventh and seven more in the ninth. Methodist finished with 14 hits and drew 14 walks, taking advantage of four Pfeiffer errors in the heat of a 90-degree afternoon.

Pfeiffer (19-15, 12-4 USA South) jumped in front early with two runs in the second inning and added single runs in the third and sixth, but couldn't keep pace as Methodist steadily wore down the Falcons' pitching staff.

Ben Mecimore drove in two runs with a double for Pfeiffer, while Connor Coy reached base twice on walks and scored two runs. Jack Brandle went 1-for-2 with an RBI, and Josh Jones added an RBI single for the Falcons.

Austin Rinzel sparked the Methodist offense, scoring four runs and reaching base four times. Israel Ortiz went 2-for-4 with three runs scored, while Ethan Golemo finished with two hits and three RBIs.

Blake Freeman added a two-RBI double as part of a six-double afternoon for Methodist (16-19, 11-6).

Pfeiffer starter Jake Blevins allowed four runs across five innings, striking out five but issuing five walks. The Falcons' bullpen surrendered 15 runs over the final four innings. Clay Pridgen worked the final three innings scoreless for Methodist, striking out four to close out the win.

The two teams will meet again on Sunday afternoon in the rubber game of the series with first pitch scheduled for 1:00 p.m.