HUTCHINSON, Kan. (AP) — The Hutchinson Monarchs used patience at the plate and a decisive ninth-run sixth inning to pull away from the Derby Twins for a 12-1 victory Sunday night at Hobart-Detter Field.
The Monarchs broke open a competitive game by sending 14 batters to the plate in the sixth inning, drawing eight walks and capitalizing on Derby pitching struggles to score nine runs and turn a three-run lead into a rout.
Hutchinson took a 1-0 lead in the third inning when Michael Barham doubled and drove in a run. The Monarchs added two more runs before erupting in the sixth.
The big inning featured a parade to first base as Caylin Grimes was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded and Carter Hepner drew a run-scoring walk. Nash Wray added an RBI on a fielder's choice before Brice Wallar, Barham, Brady Taylor, James Dagenhart, Grimes and Hepner all forced in runs with bases-loaded walks as the Monarchs pushed across nine runs in the frame.
The offensive outburst provided more than enough support for Hutchinson's pitching staff.
Brayden Henry earned the win, tossing three hitless innings while striking out seven and walking two. Gabe Winans was equally effective in relief, allowing just one run on two hits over 3 2/3 innings while striking out five without issuing a walk.
Landon Blais took the loss for Derby after allowing three runs on seven hits over four innings. He struck out six and walked one.
Barham drove in a team-high three runs despite finishing 1-for-3. Dagenhart and Wray each collected two hits as the Monarchs totaled nine hits on the night.
Hutchinson also showed discipline at the plate, drawing nine walks. Hepner and Taylor led the way with two walks apiece. The Monarchs added a double play defensively.
Derby's offense was limited to two hits, one each from Gavin Mesa and Jude Almarez. Noah Allison drove in the Twins' lone run.