Ruehle's gem helps Storm split with Cornell

MOUNT VERNON, Iowa – Kyle Ruehle threw a one-hit shutout in game two as the Simpson baseball team split a doubleheader with Cornell on Friday, losing game one 3-0 and winning the nightcap 11-0.

After a quiet offensive output in the opener, Simpson's offense broke out for 11 hits in game two.

Ruehle struck out six in his first career shutout, improving to 3-2 on the season for the Storm (13-16, 7-7 Iowa Conference). He allowed a hit in the game's first at-bat before retiring 21 of the next 26.

Although he didn't need it, the senior received plenty of run support from his offense.

Simpson scored four runs in the second and third innings to jump out to a 9-0 lead after the third. Michael Chia went 1-for-2 with three RBIs and Tyler Crandell and Brett Crable had two hits and two RBIs apiece.

In the opener it was Cornell's Charlie Muir who commanded the mound. Muir tossed a complete-game one-hitter of his own, striking out four and walking three.

Ryan Nordtvedt gave Muir the only runs he would need with a two-RBI single in the first. He finished 2-for-3 at the plate for the Rams (8-18, 5-6).

Simpson and Cornell complete their three-game series Saturday with a nine-inning game beginning at 11 a.m.