Wautoma Hornets slide past Pioneers with 9-5 victory

The Wautoma Hornets defended their home turf on May 12, outlasting conference rival Westfield Pioneers for a 9-5 win.
Wautoma jumped out to an early lead, plating three runs by the second inning. However, the Pioneers offense found its rhythm in the middle frames, answering with four runs over the next two innings to carry a 4-3 lead into the top of the fifth.
The momentum shifted for good in the bottom of the fifth. Following a pitching change, the Hornets exploded for a four-run “big inning” to retake control. While Westfield managed one final run in the seventh, Wautoma’s defense slammed the door to secure the victory.
Westfield pitchers still showed their skills on the mound, with Brayden Lentz striking out 6 Wautoma batters and Maverick Patten with 3 strikeouts.
Blake Parker led Pioneer offense while batting 2 for 3 . Westfield’s overall record drops to 10-8 and 7-4 in the South Central Conference (SCC).

Peyton Pica earned the Hornets their win in relief while pitching the final three innings. During this time he managed to strike out six Pioneer batters and only allowed 1 hit. Carson Rose got the Hornets started on the mount with 7 strikeouts, while also swiping 3 bags on the bases.
Hornet offense was led by Angel Salinas who went 2 for 4 while up to bat, while also making an RBI. In total the team had 5 stolen bases and 6 team walks.
The Hornets improve their record to 9-9-1 overall and 8-3 in the SCC.