LA VERNE, CA — The University of La Verne baseball team opened the 2025 SCIAC Postseason Tournament with a gritty 4-3 victory over Redlands on Thursday afternoon at Ben Hines Field, advancing to the winner's bracket in pursuit of another conference title.

The Leopards (32-8) set the tone early with a three-run first inning, capitalizing on a Redlands error and clutch hits from Nate Perry, Nolan Anguiano and a huge double from Logan Corthell. Perry led the offense with a 3-for-3 day that included a walk, an RBI double in the seventh inning, and a run scored. Senior center fielder Benny Vogel added a double of his own and scored a key insurance run to help the Leopards stay ahead.

On the mound, senior Matthew DesMarets improved to 9-2 on the season, scattering four hits and allowing just one earned run over 6.2 innings while striking out four. Justin Ries came in as relief and earned his fourth save, working the final 2.1 innings and shutting the door with two strikeouts.

Despite a late push from the Bulldogs-including a solo home run by Ryan Morris in the eighth-La Verne's defense and bullpen held firm to seal the win.

Up next, the Leopards will take on Claremont-Mudd-Scripps in a winner's bracket matchup on Friday, May 9, at 3 p.m. at Ben Hines Field. La Verne looks to continue its postseason momentum and extend its run in the tournament with another strong showing.