AUGUSTA, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs were unable to overcome an early deficit Friday night, falling 7-4 to the Kansas Cannons at Augusta.
Kansas jumped in front in the first inning when Wyatt Reeder delivered an RBI single, and the Cannons added to their lead in the second after a Monarchs error helped make it 3-0.
The Cannons continued to build their advantage in the third inning. Thatcher Baughman lined a run-scoring single down the left-field line, and Drew Becker later drew a bases-loaded walk to push the lead to 5-0.
Hutchinson chipped away throughout the game but could never completely erase the deficit. The Monarchs collected nine hits, with Jackson Harding leading the offense by going 2-for-3 from the No. 8 spot in the lineup. JJ Spafford, Harding, James Dagenhart and Michael Barham each drove in a run.
Kansas added an insurance run in the eighth inning when Chase Davidson launched a solo home run to left field, helping secure the victory.
Daegan Vinduska took the loss for Hutchinson after allowing five runs, only one earned, on six hits over three innings. He struck out three and walked two. Kansas starter Isaac Worden earned the win, giving up one run on three hits in three innings while striking out three and walking one.
The Monarchs turned two double plays defensively but were hurt by early miscues. Kansas finished with 10 hits and played error-free baseball.
Davidson and Zach Makarewich paced the Cannons offense with three hits apiece. Reeder drove in three runs, while Talan Barraza reached base frequently with three walks and stole two bases. The Cannons were aggressive on the basepaths, swiping six bases overall.
Becker led Kansas defensively with eight putouts as the Cannons also turned two double plays.
The Monarchs will look to bounce back Saturday when they face the Kansas Cannons tonight at Hobart-Detter.
Can't make it to the ball game? Watchis live on Hutchpost.com or monarchs live.tv.