SAINT PETER, Minn.— Bethel University's baseball team improved to 22-5 on the season and 10-2 in conference play with Saturday's sweep over Gustavus Adolphus College. The Royals topped the Gusties 9-0 in the opener and 3-0 in the second game.

Reigning MIAC Pitcher of the Week, Joe Zorn, improved his record to 5-1 on the season after once again pitching a complete game shutout. Zorn only gave up four hits, struck out eight, and walked just one in the seven innings he pitched.

BU came out hot in the first two innings scoring one in each, making the score 2-0. Then in the fifth inning they scored four to put the game away and gave Zorn more than enough insurance to preserve the win. Matt Conrad had a terrific day at the plate with three hits, two RBI's and two runs scored. Bryce Marquardt and Lars Anderson both had a pair of base knocks.

The little things in the second game were huge as each team had their moments. Senior pitcher for Gustavus, Michael Strelow, pitched lights out for six innings but the wheels came off in the seventh. After a pair of walks, Strelow gave up a two-run double to freshman shortstop Esteban Velasco and that was enough for the Royals pitching staff. Jake Hanzalik went the first five innings for Bethel, allowing just two hits while striking out five. Freshman Carson Selin earned the win with 1 2/3 innings of scoreless relief before closer Kelvin Minning slammed the door on the Gusties with 2 1/3 scoreless innings to record his second save of the week. For the second consecutive Saturday the Royals pitching staff did not allow a single run in an MIAC double header on the road.

Bethel is No. 1 in the MIAC now as they are playing the No. 3 team in the conference, St. Thomas (17-11 overall 8-4 MIAC) this Tuesday. The Royals will travel to Koch Diamond in St. Paul for the doubleheader at 2:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.