Brigade routs Monarchs 14-1 behind seven-run fifth inning
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Junction City Brigade exploded for seven runs in the fifth inning en route to a 14-1 victory over the Hutchinson Monarchs on Monday night at Hobart-Detter Field.
The Brigade scored 11 of their 14 runs between the fourth and sixth innings, taking advantage of sloppy Hutchinson pitching that issued eight walks and hit three batters during the contest.
Junction City (4-0) broke open a close game with four runs in the fourth inning without recording a hit, benefiting from three walks, two hit batters and a Hutchinson error before adding seven more runs in the fifth.
"We took advantage of their struggles on the mound," said Brigade manager John Smith. "Our guys showed great patience at the plate and made them pay for their mistakes."
Hutchinson starter Ethan Giesbrecht (3-1) suffered the loss after allowing three earned runs over three innings. The Monarchs' bullpen, led by Aiden Sowers, surrendered nine runs over the next two frames.
Joey Ruller (4-0) earned the victory for Junction City, striking out nine batters while allowing just one run over six innings of work.
The Brigade jumped ahead early with back-to-back RBI singles from Chad Pantuso and Eli Kellogg in the first inning. Hutchinson answered with a run in the bottom half when Jacob Gutierrez, Tyson Vassart and Jackson Legg connected for consecutive singles.
However, the Monarchs managed just four hits the remainder of the game and stranded runners in scoring position in both the fourth and sixth innings.
The loss dropped Hutchinson to 25-6 on the season, while Junction City moved into a tie with the Derby Twins for second place in the Jayhawk League standings, five games behind the leaders.
The teams will meet again Tuesday night in Junction City with first pitch scheduled for 7 p.m.
Hutchinson will conclude its regular season Friday night at Hobart-Detter Field on Reno County Food Bank night. Fans are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items as donations.
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