Pendell’s 10 Ks Not Enough as Bucks Rally Past Cardinals
By GameChanger Media
Despite out-hitting the New Hampshire Bucks 12 to 10, the Granite State Cardinals fell 12-8 in a hard-fought contest on Father's Day.
Jake Laroche led the Cardinals at the plate with three hits and continued to be a reliable offensive presence. On the mound, Meredius Pendell struck out 10 batters while allowing six hits and three runs over five innings, showing impressive command despite the loss.
The Cardinals struck first in the opening inning when Laroche singled to score a run. They extended their early lead in the second inning, capitalizing on a triple by Jamel Vilmont, a single by Brian Remillard, and a fielder’s choice from Nick Vaughns, each driving in runs.
The Bucks fought back, taking the lead in the seventh inning with a triple by Sam Malgeri and additional runs driven in by a hit-by-pitch and a walk.
The Cardinals responded immediately, reclaiming the lead in the bottom half as Joe Berman grounded out and Owen McNulty singled to score two runs.
However, the Bucks pulled away in the eighth inning, scoring five runs on just two hits—including a clutch two-RBI single by Imanol Ramos—to secure the victory.
Ryan Williams earned the win in relief for the Bucks, allowing two runs over three innings with four strikeouts. Jesse Baughman took the loss for the Cardinals after a tough inning where he allowed five runs.
The Cardinals collected 12 hits overall, with Laroche, Vilmont, Remillard, Sam Czel, and McNulty each driving in runs. The team also swiped four bases, demonstrating aggressive baserunning.
The Bucks' offense was led by Malgeri, who went 3-for-4, and Bobby Baril, who added two hits. The Bucks showed patience at the plate, drawing nine walks and stealing multiple bases.
The Cardinals will look to bounce back as they host the Lakes Region Muskrats next Saturday.
Cardinals Top Performers
⚾ Jake Laroche – Stellar at the plate with 3 hits and a key RBI, anchoring the offense.
⚾ Meredius Pendell – Dominated on the mound with 10 strikeouts over 5 innings, keeping the Cardinals competitive.
⚾ Owen McNulty – Came through with a crucial RBI single in the seventh inning to help regain the lead.
