The Hutchinson Monarchs suffered the first loss of the NBC World Series on Monday evening falling to the Seattle Studs 9-5.
Despite collecting 10 hits to the Studs’ 11, the Monarchs struggled to capitalize on their opportunities. Dylan Bell led Hutchinson with two RBIs, while Jaden Gustafson, Jake Gutierrez, and JJ Spafford each notched two hits in the loss.
Pryce Bender started on the mound for the Monarchs, surrendering six runs on seven hits over four and two-thirds innings. Kyle Holzer impressed in relief, striking out five over two innings while allowing just two hits and one unearned run.
Seattle first baseman Jackson Copeland delivered a standout performance at the plate, going a perfect 4-for-4 with a double, two RBIs, a run scored, and a walk, earning Player of the Game honors. Catcher Kai Halstead also made a significant impact, finishing 2-for-3 with three runs scored, a solo home run, an RBI, and a walk.
With the win, the Studs remain undefeated in tournament play and will carry momentum into the knockout stage. Hutchinson, now 2-1 in pool play, will look to regroup moving forward.
Pairings for the knockout stage will be announced following today's action.
In other action from Monday,
Seattle Blackfins 7, MVP Oklahoma 5
The Seattle Blackfins have clinched the final qualification place in Pool A, after defeating MVP Oklahoma 7-5. Paxton Bigby and Brody Blum led the way for the Blackfins, each driving in two runs. Brayden Larson was 2-3 for the Blackfins also driving in a run.
San Diego Stars 11, Dodge City 10
In a game that came down to the wire, Stars third baseman Joe Anderson drove in two runs on a grounder through the gap, giving the Stars an 11-10 walk off victory over the Dodge City A’s.
Hays Larks 7, Lonestar Kraken 4
In a battle for the top seed in Pool A, the Hays Larks jumped out to a quick 3-0 lead in the first and never looked back, winning 7-4. Taber Stokes continued his great play with a double in the 5th for the Larks, while Lane Sparks and Trent Baker both swiped two bases. Nolan Wilson got the start for the Larks, throwing 5 innings, giving up 5 hits, 1 run, walking 5 batters, and striking out 3.