INDIANA, Pa. — Delaney Patella became Indiana (Pa.)'s all-time home run leader as the Crimson Hawks swept Clarion in a PSAC doubleheader with a pair of dominant offensive performances.
IUP (18-14, 8-2 PSAC) scored 24 total runs in the sweep, winning both games by comfortable margins while extending its momentum in conference play.
Patella's record-breaking home run came during the twinbill, giving her the program's career mark and highlighting another strong day at the plate for the Crimson Hawks. The milestone blast helped fuel an offense that consistently pressured Clarion pitching throughout the afternoon.
In Game 1, IUP set the tone early, scoring multiple runs in four innings on the way to a 12-run output. The Crimson Hawks racked up 15 hits and played clean defense, not committing an error.
IUP plated two runs in the first inning and broke the game open with a four-run second. The offense continued to produce in the middle innings, steadily building a lead that Clarion could not overcome.
In Game 2, the Crimson Hawks once again struck early and often, scoring in five different innings. IUP combined timely hitting with patience at the plate, drawing walks and delivering extra-base hits to keep pressure on the Golden Eagles.
A three-run first inning set the tone, and IUP added insurance with multiple three-run frames late to put the game out of reach.
In the circle, IUP received solid outings in both games, limiting Clarion's scoring opportunities while benefiting from consistent run support.
With the sweep, the Crimson Hawks continued their strong start in PSAC West play, backed by a powerful offense and highlighted by Patella's historic achievement.