The University of Pennsylvania baseball team secured a place in the Liberty Bell Classic title game after defeating Lafayette 13-3 in seven innings on April 7 at Tommy Lasorda Field at Meiklejohn Stadium. The Quakers will play the winner of Saint Joseph’s versus Rider at Citizens Bank Park on April 21.
This result is significant for Penn Quakers Men’s Baseball, which competes in NCAA Division I athletics as part of the University of Pennsylvania’s intercollegiate program, according to the official website. The team also maintains membership in the Ivy League and regularly hosts home games at Tommy Lasorda Field at Meiklejohn Stadium.
Senior infielder Ryan Taylor made program history by breaking the school record for stolen bases, previously held by Doug Glanville. Taylor achieved his third stolen base of the game—his 59th career steal—to set a new mark, finishing with four steals against Lafayette and bringing his career total to 60. In addition to his base running, Taylor contributed two hits, three RBIs, three runs scored, and drew two walks.
Sophomore Michael Powell led Penn’s offense with three hits and three runs scored. Nick Spaventa added two hits—including his first career triple—two RBIs and a run scored. Jay Secretarski, Jarrett Pokrovsky, Gavin Degnan, Nick Guachione and Matthew Pazak each recorded hits as well.
On the mound, sophomore right-hander Connor Darling earned his first win of the season during his first start this campaign. Ben Moulin, Nick Newburn, Thomas Egbert, Josh Katz and John Cerwinski also pitched during Tuesday’s victory.
The Quakers built an early lead with strong performances in both batting and pitching throughout the game. Highlights included a four-run second inning capped by Spaventa’s triple for a 6-0 advantage and additional scoring through subsequent innings that led to an eventual run-rule victory.
Looking ahead, Penn awaits its opponent for the Liberty Bell Classic final while preparing for upcoming Ivy League games against Cornell this weekend at their home field. More information about Penn Quakers Men’s Baseball can be found on their official website.
