MACON, Ga. — The Citadel (8-13, 0-2 SoCon) faltered at Mercer (20-3, 2-0 SoCon) in the second game of a three-game set, dropping an 8-4 decision Saturday afternoon at OrthoGeorgia Park.
 
TJ Anderson scored two runs and endured two hit-by-pitches. Michael Gibson posted a season-high performance, securing two hits, including a double, and crossing home plate once.
 
Ben Brash delivered a strong relief effort, pitching 4.2 innings and striking out four batters, setting a personal best for the season. Riley Ballard started on the mound, lasting 0.1 inning and giving up three runs on three hits, including two home runs with one walk to take the loss. Andrew Buffkin provided 3.0 frames out of the bullpen, allowing two runs on six hits with one strikeout and three walks.
 
For the Bears, Braydon Kersey went 4-for-5 at the plate with three solo home runs. Miguel Hugas earned the win after pitching 5.2 innings, allowing just one hit, one earned run, and striking out five.
 
"We are struggling in all aspects of the game right now. We're not playing complementary baseball," said head coach Russell Triplett. "Long innings on defense and quick, short innings on offense. We need to start stronger on the mound and have better at-bats earlier in the game."
 
The Bulldogs conclude the series against the Bears at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 22 at OrthoGeorgia Park.