Even though North Decatur gave up four runs in the third inning, they still defeated Southwestern Shelby 16-6 in varsity baseball action on Friday.
The base paths were crowded in this high-scoring game. The Chargers collected 17 hits, while the Spartans had seven.
North Decatur got things started in the first inning when Ty Litmer drew a walk, scoring one run.
After Southwestern Shelby scored one run in the top of the second, the Chargers answered with one of their own when Tyler Dean drew a walk, scoring one run.
North Decatur pulled away for good with five runs in the third to take a 10-5 lead. Brayden Hancock, Nolan Burkhart, Reid Messer, and Xander Jones each drove in runs during the inning.
Dean earned the win on the mound for the Chargers, allowing six hits and six runs over four innings while striking out three.
Matthew Clements took the loss on the mound for the Spartans. He surrendered 14 runs on 14 hits over four and a third innings, striking out five. Caleb McCracken threw one inning out of the bullpen.
North Decatur tallied 17 hits in the game. Jones, Hancock, Kamdenn McKinney, Messer, and James Evans each racked up multiple hits for the team.
Isaac Bunch led Southwestern Shelby with three hits in three at bats.
Recap provided by North Decatur varsity baseball coach Christian McKinney.