HUTCHINSON, Kan. (AP) — The Hutchinson Monarchs continued their strong start to the 2026 season Monday night, cruising to an 11-1 run-rule victory over the Kingman Islanders at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park.
The Monarchs wasted little time taking control, scoring twice in the bottom of the first inning. Marcus Gradney delivered the big hit of the frame with a single that drove in two runs for an early 2-0 advantage.
Hutchinson added to its lead in the second inning, capitalizing on patience at the plate. James Dagenhart and Brady Taylor each drew bases-loaded walks, while Jackson Schanuel grounded into a fielder's choice that plated another run, extending the lead to 5-0.
The Monarchs' offense continued to pressure Kingman pitching throughout the night, finishing with 10 walks and five stolen bases. Hutchinson also played clean defense, committing no errors and turning a double play behind a strong pitching performance.
Cole Toureau earned the victory, allowing just one hit and one run over 5 2/3 innings. The right-hander struck out five and walked three. Gabe Winans closed out the game in relief, tossing 1 1/3 scoreless innings while striking out four and allowing no hits.
Kingman's Caydon Holly suffered the loss after surrendering five runs on two hits and seven walks over three innings.
JJ Spafford sparked the Monarchs' offense from the ninth spot in the lineup, collecting two hits in three at-bats. Gradney, Taylor and Carter Hepner each drove in two runs. Dagenhart, Nash Wray, Taylor, Schanuel and Caylin Grimes drew two walks apiece as Hutchinson's disciplined approach at the plate kept the pressure on all evening.
Wray stole two bases as part of the Monarchs' aggressive effort on the basepaths. Jackson Harding led the defensive effort with nine chances in the field.
Kingman's lone run came on an RBI from Landon Parks. Jack Scheiner recorded the Islanders' only hit, finishing 1-for-3.
With the victory, Hutchinson improved its early-season record to 3-0 and will travel to Kingman on Wednesday for a rematch against the Islanders who fall to 0-2 after the loss Monday night.
That game will be available to watch on the Kingman Islanders YouTube stream at 7pm.