Complete Game Gem Backs 15-Hit Offensive Explosion in Convincing Road Victory

BEL AIR, MD – March 21, 2026 – CJ Fernandez delivered a masterful complete game performance, and the University of Valley Forge offense erupted for 15 hits as the Patriots defeated Notre Dame (Md.) 9-2 on Friday afternoon in impressive fashion.

Fernandez (1-1) was dominant from the first pitch to the last, scattering just 4 hits over nine complete innings while striking out 5 batters and walking only 2. The right-hander threw 114 pitches in front of 153 fans, consistently working ahead in the count and keeping the Gators' offense off balance throughout the afternoon.

The Patriots (7-6) wasted no time getting on the board, plating a run in the first inning and never looking back. Valley Forge added three runs in the second, two in the third, and single runs in the fifth, sixth, and seventh innings to build a commanding 8-0 advantage.

Gabriel Murphy led the offensive charge, going 3-for-5 with a double, an RBI, and two stolen bases while reaching base in all six plate appearances. Murphy set the table all day from the leadoff spot, consistently putting pressure on the Notre Dame defense.

Carson Lengle continued his hot hitting, going 3-for-5 with two runs scored and a stolen base, while Joey Demirjian added a multi-hit performance with two hits, including a double, two runs scored, an RBI, a stolen base, and a sacrifice fly.

Asijah Evelyn contributed a 2-for-4 effort with 2 RBIs, while Aaron Zapata went 2-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored. Chase Timmons also collected two hits in the victory.

The Patriots' aggressive baserunning was on full display as they swiped four bases—Murphy (2), Lengle, Brayden Tunnell, and Demirjian each successfully stealing a bag.

Valley Forge's defense was flawless behind Fernandez, committing zero errors while turning ground balls into outs consistently throughout the game. The Patriots' pitching and defense combination held Notre Dame scoreless through six innings before the Gators finally broke through with single runs in the seventh and ninth.

Notre Dame (2-11) managed just four hits against Fernandez, with Zane Cook recording a double and an RBI, and Hunter Beil hitting a triple in the ninth inning. Starting pitcher Joshua Boyd (1-2) took the loss, allowing 7 runs (6 earned) on 9 hits over four innings.

The Patriots struck early and often, producing a season-high 15 hits while demonstrating excellent plate discipline with six walks. The offensive output was balanced throughout the lineup, with every position contributing to the hit parade.

Game Notes:

• CJ Fernandez throws complete game, allowing just 4 hits
• Valley Forge collects season-high 15 hits
• Gabriel Murphy reaches base in all 6 plate appearances (3-5, BB)
• Patriots commit zero errors on defense
• Valley Forge steals 4 bases
• Win improves Patriots to 7-7 on the season
• Game time: 2 hours, 27 minutes

Box Score Summary:

• Valley Forge: 9 runs, 15 hits, 0 errors
• Notre Dame (Md.): 2 runs, 4 hits, 2 errors