Republic hitters abused Hillcrest pitchers from the start of the game, scoring six runs in the first inning in a runaway 13-0, five-inning victory at Hillcrest Thursday night. Jaden Duvall led the way from the leadoff spot with four hits in four at-bats. The Tigers pounded out 17 hits in all.
Duvall started the game by singling, stealing a base, and scoring on Tyler Cavener’s RBI single. Landin Sigman reached on an error, then Cameron Beck, Jacob Crosswhite, and Nick Rose singled in succession. By the time the Hornets came up to bat, they were already in a six-run hole.
The game got out of hand so quickly that coach Curt Plotner pulled starting pitcher A.J. Calhoon to keep him available for a possible appearance, if necessary, in the Tigers’ game Frida night. Tim McWilliams came into the game in the third inning and picked up the win in relief. Calhoon struck out two batters in two perfect innings of work. McWilliams allowed three hits and struck out two, preserving the shutout.
In addition to Duvall’s 4-for-4 night, Republic got three hits from Beck, Rose, and Crosswhite.
Republic improves to 2-3. The Tigers travel to Aurora Friday night to play Kearney.