On Thursday evening, the Portland Varsity Baseball team faced off against the Ionia Bulldogs in two 8-inning games. The competition was intense and made for an exciting night of baseball, with ideal weather conditions. During the first game, the Raiders held a 1-0 lead until the 4th inning, when Ionia managed to tie things up. With the score at 2-2 in the 5th inning, the game went into extra innings, where Ionia pulled ahead and secured a 2-4 victory. Despite the loss, Raiders pitcher Marc Nobis delivered an impressive performance, striking out 10 Bulldogs, while Ionia's Ethan Bowen struck out 15 Raiders and allowed only 4 hits. Gunner Williams, Caden Thelen, Marc Nobis, and Barrett Brennan were responsible for the Raiders' hits.

The second game played out similarly, with Ionia leading 4-2 heading into the bottom of the 8th inning. However, the Raiders managed to rally and load the bases. With a 1-1 count, freshman Brody Moore hit a grand slam, securing the victory for the Raiders. The game showcased another impressive display of pitching, with the Raiders' Caden Thelen striking out 10 batters in 7 innings, and Paul Roberts getting the win. Marky Meyers, Brody Moore, Carson Martin, Caden Thelen, and Barrett Brennan all contributed hits for the Raiders.

The Raiders now hold an overall record of 8-4, with a 2-2 record in the league. They will be competing in a doubleheader against Carson City in the Portland Spring Sports Carnival on Saturday at 10 am.

JV baseball won 1st game against Ionia 6-5 and tied the 2nd game 7-7