Michigan emerged victorious in both games of a doubleheader held in Iowa City on Saturday, triumphing over the Hawkeyes with scores of 4-3 and 10-6. The Wolverines utilized only three pitchers throughout both contests, with Mitch Voit, Will Rogers, and Jacob Denner combining for seven earned runs and 11 strikeouts. Noteworthy performances included Collin Priest’s homer in the first game.
In the twinbill sweep, Michigan amassed a total of 19 hits while limiting their pitching rotation, ultimately securing the series win. Voit led the charge with an impressive 6.1 innings in the opener, followed by Rogers who not only saved the first game but also initiated the second, and Denner, who closed out the series with a strong seven innings and allowing just two earned runs. Priest’s contributions were significant, with three hits, two RBIs, and two runs, including his game-one home run.
Despite Iowa’s early leads in both games, they couldn’t maintain them. Their pitchers struck out 30 Wolverines but struggled with control, issuing 15 walks and conceding 19 hits. Michigan rallied in the top of the eighth inning of the second game, turning a 6-5 deficit into a commanding 10-6 lead with a string of five RBI hits. Denner then effectively shut down the Hawkeyes in the final two innings to seal the doubleheader sweep and secure Michigan’s series victory.
In game one, Iowa took an early lead with two runs, but Michigan responded with Priest’s homer in the third inning, tying the game. They grabbed the lead later in the inning, capitalizing on a bases-loaded walk. Voit and Rogers effectively kept the Hawkeyes at bay, with Rogers securing his second save of the season.
The Wolverines quickly took a 1-0 lead in game two, but Iowa surged ahead to a 3-1 lead after three innings. Michigan fought back, tying the game in the fifth and ultimately seizing a 5-3 lead in the sixth inning. Iowa tied the game once more, but Michigan exploded for five runs in the eighth inning to secure the win. Denner’s solid pitching closed out the game and the series for Michigan.
Michigan will now return home for a five-game homestand, starting against Western Michigan on Tuesday at the Wilpon Complex, Ray Fisher Stadium.
