In game one of a three-game set, NKU found themselves amid a six-run sixth inning. After trailing for most of the game, the Norse were playing add-on. With Youngstown State wailing after a defensive collapse, up stepped the red-hot Tyler Shaneyfelt, who was batting for the second time that inning. With little hesitation, Shaneyfelt teed off on pitcher Phil Brennaman, lacing a line drive into left field, scoring two more runs on his third hit of the day, putting the team on his back and coasting in with a blowout victory.
NKU baseball ended their 2025 regular season in dominant fashion, sweeping a three-game home series against Youngstown State. The Norse outscored the Penguins 49–16 over the weekend, showing off their strong offense, solid pitching and growing confidence as they head into the Horizon League Tournament.
The sweep moved NKU’s record to 30–23 overall and 18–12 in Horizon League play, giving them strong momentum going into postseason play.
In game one, NKU fell behind early, but everything changed in the sixth inning. That’s when the Norse exploded for nine runs, turning the game around and taking control.
Youngstown State struggled defensively, committing six errors, which helped NKU stay in the game and take the lead.
Outfielder Tyler Shaneyfelt had a great day at the plate, going 4-for-6, scoring four runs and driving in three. His hitting and hustle sparked the team’s big rally.
Pitcher Kaden Echeman stayed steady through some early trouble and earned the win, improving his record to 3–3 on the season.
In Game two, the Norse didn’t waste time scoring early and building a 6–0 lead by the third inning. Their bats stayed hot, as they coasted to a 12–4 victory. Once again, NKU took advantage of its scoring chances and didn’t let up.
Jake Altman came through for the Norse, going 3-for-5 and driving in a run. The lineup kept pressure on Youngstown State’s pitchers all game long.
On the mound, Shawn Parnell gave NKU a solid start. He pitched 2.2 innings, allowed no runs and kept the Penguins from building momentum. The Norse also played great defense, turning two double plays and making no errors.
In game three, the Norse bats exploded for 23 runs on 19 hits, which was NKU’s biggest performance of the year. Every starter reached base at least once and seven players had at least one RBI.
One of the biggest moments came when Josh Williams hit his second home run of the game in the fourth inning, extending their lead to 18-12.
The Norse also used a mix of pitchers in this game. Evan Fry got the win, pitching three innings, striking out five and keeping Youngstown State from making a comeback.
After sweeping Youngstown State, NKU finishes the regular season with a strong 29–23 record. They are now focused on the Horizon League Tournament, where they’ll try to continue their hot streak and make a run at the championship.
With solid pitching, powerful hitting and strong team chemistry, the Norse are looking like a serious threat in the postseason and look to make their second-straight NCAA tournament appearance.