DBU Clips Baseball Bears in Series Opener

Patriots take first game of weekend set with late rally

Mar. 28, 2026 at 3:50pm

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Dallas Baptist University scored three runs in the first inning and got a solid start from left-hander Liam Watt to defeat Missouri State 5-4 in the series opener at Horner Ballpark on Friday. The Patriots built an early 4-2 lead, and despite a late rally by the Bears, held on for the victory.

Why it matters

This early-season conference matchup between two top teams in the region is an important early test for both squads as they look to position themselves for a potential postseason berth. The outcome could have implications for the Conference USA standings and NCAA tournament seeding down the line.

The details

DBU piled up five hits in the first inning to take a 3-0 lead, and starting pitcher Liam Watt retired the first 11 Missouri State batters he faced. The Patriots added a solo home run in the fifth before the Bears broke through with two runs in the sixth to make it 4-2. Missouri State tried to rally late, scoring two more runs in the eighth, but ultimately fell short 5-4.

  • The series opener took place on Friday, March 28, 2026.
  • Game two of the series is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 29, 2026.

The players

Liam Watt

The left-handed starting pitcher for Dallas Baptist University, who earned the win with a strong outing.

Gabe Roessler

The Missouri State batter who hit a home run in the sixth inning to get the Bears on the board.

Ross Felder

The Missouri State pitcher who made his first career start, going four innings.

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What they’re saying

“We knew this was going to be a tough series against a very good Missouri State team. I'm proud of the way our guys came out and competed today, and we'll look to build on this momentum tomorrow.”

— Dan Heefner, Dallas Baptist Head Coach

“We had our chances, but just couldn't quite get over the hump today. Credit to Dallas Baptist, they made the plays when they needed to. We'll regroup and come out ready to go tomorrow.”

— Keith Guttin, Missouri State Head Coach

What’s next

Game two of the series is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 29, 2026, as Missouri State looks to even the series.

The takeaway

This early-season conference matchup between two top teams in the region showcased the competitive nature of Conference USA baseball. While Dallas Baptist was able to hold on for the victory, the close nature of the game indicates these two squads could be battling for position in the standings all season long.