Dallas, Texas -- The Mid-America Christian University Baseball Evangels split a doubleheader with the Dallas Christian College Crusaders today, winning an opening slugfest of 15-13 before falling 7-6 in the second game.

The Evangels rallied big in the first game, taking the lead on a grand slam by Jerry McNew that put the finishing touches on an eight-run seventh inning and put MACU in front 15-11.

The first five Evangel hitters reached in the seventh, including RBI singles by Pedro Varela and Cameron Kirk.

Dallas Christian didn't go quietly in the bottom of the inning, scoring two runs and loading the bases to put the winning run on first. 

But Zach Carley managed to induce a popout that resulted in a game-ending double play to pick up a save and allow the Evangels to hang on for the victory.

Varela and Kirk each went two-of-four, with Varela scoring three runs and Kirk recording three RBIs. Colt Pickens also had two hits for the Evangels in the opening tilt.

Nick Carrell went three-of-five and had four RBIs for the Crusaders.

The Evangels also attempted to come from behind in the nightcap, trailing 7-4 going to the seventh but clawing within a run on an RBI double by Jacob Martinez and run-scoring fielder's choice from Jake White.

With White at first with one out representing the tying run, Gabe Benza got a popout and then a strikeout to end the Evangel rally and finish the win for the Crusaders.

Kevin Lentzner went two-of-three for the Evangels, with a home run and sacrifice fly.

White was two-of-four and Martinez drove in two runs in the second game.

The Crusaders got a four-of-four performance at the plate from Jacob Patlan, while Cameron Charman went three-of-three.

The Evangels will stay in Texas and play at Arlington Baptist tomorrow (Mar. 29) at 1 pm.