Arjona & Zapata Drive the Bobcats Series Sweet over Virginia Peninsula

Arjona & Zapata Drive the Bobcats Series Sweet over Virginia Peninsula
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January 23, 2026
The Bryant & Stratton College (VA) Bobcats wrapped up a strong day at Lynnhaven Baseball on Friday by completing a sweep of the VPCC Gators, taking both ends of the doubleheader with dominant offensive performances. In game one, the Bobcats cruised to a 13–2 victory behind a balanced attack and efficient pitching, setting the tone early and never letting momentum slip.

In the opener, Angel Arjona led the charge, driving in four runs on a first-inning double and a two-run home run in the sixth. The Bobcats jumped out to a three-run lead in the first inning and continued to add on, highlighted by Nelson Zapata's grand slam in the seventh. Bryant & Stratton totaled 10 hits, with Arjona, Ben Malone, and Brandon Ostalaza each recording two. On the mound, Hector Noriega earned the win after striking out seven over four innings, while Angelo Allievi was sharp in relief with three scoreless frames to close out the game.

Game two turned into an offensive showcase, as the Bobcats outlasted the Gators 12–6, powered by a monster performance from Zapata. Zapata drove in seven runs on three hits, including a two-run single in the first, a two-run triple in the fourth, and a three-run homer in the fifth. Bryant & Stratton took control early and steadily built its lead, using timely hitting and aggressive baserunning to keep pressure on VPCC throughout the game.

The Bobcats showed patience and speed in the nightcap, drawing 11 walks and stealing six bases. Kai Patton and Benjamin Meeks each collected multiple hits, while Sylvester Clarke reached base consistently and drew four walks. Ellis Windheim and Clarke both swiped multiple bags, helping fuel the offense. The pitching staff was equally effective, as Clayton Cooksey earned the win with two perfect innings and four strikeouts, while Elias Hicks, Jack Texter, and Taylor Harris each delivered shutout innings in relief.

By the end of the day, Bryant & Stratton had combined strong pitching, disciplined at-bats, and explosive run production to secure a convincing doubleheader sweep. The Bobcats' ability to capitalize in key moments and control the tempo in both games underscored a complete team effort and capped off an impressive showing to start the season.