FAYETTE, Mo. - The No. 23-ranked Columbia College baseball team opened up the Valentine Invite this afternoon with a 9-7 victory over host Central Methodist. The Cougars jumped out to an early six run lead in the second inning, fueled by a Dylan Carlton grand slam. The Eagles were able to chip away at the deficit, tying the game at six apiece in the seventh inning. Columbia was able to scratch across three runs in the ninth, giving them the edge over the Eagles. 

With the win, the Cougars move to 2-3 on the season and Central Methodist drops to 2-3. 

Statistical Leaders: 
CC def. CMU, 9-7

• Dylan Carlton led the way for the offense going 3-for-4 with five RBI's
• Tyler Renn delivered a two-run single in the ninth 
• Jack Dunn and Braydn O'Neal each added a hit
• Hunter Hees picked up his first save of the season
• The Cougars drew eight walks in the win
• Pitching: 
  • Kolten Payne: 6.0 IP, 4 ER, 3 SO
  • Hunter Hees (W, 1-0): 3.0 IP, 3 ER