The Humboldt Cubs remain undefeated in the Tri-Valley Conference after crushing Bluestem 15-0, 13-1 in Monday’s doubleheader.
With 17 strikeouts over two contests, the Bluestem Lions failed to establish any momentum as Humboldt quickly put them out of contention with strong hitting to open both contests.
A five-run first inning set the tone early in the opener. Senior catcher Jacob Harrington was perfect in the batter’s box, hitting in 2 of 2 appearances for a team-leading four RBIs. Senior outfielder Cole Mathes had a pair of RBIs while hitting in 1 of 2 appearances with a pair of walks and crossing home plate four times. Senior third baseman Kyler Isbell hit in 1 of 1 appearances with a pair of RBIs and three walks.
Humboldt’s pitchers were equally as effective in the opener with senior Logan Page getting the win while striking out seven batters over three innings. Senior Blake Ellis came on in relief for a pair of Ks in his one inning on the mound.
In the second game, Humboldt once again built a double digit lead before a fourth-inning Bluestem single broke the goose-egg. Even so, the Lions could not stave off the Cubs’ run-rule victory.
Page had a team-leading three RBIs while hitting in both appearances at the plate. Ellis and senior first baseman Colden Cook and junior second baseman Mason Sterling drove in a pair of runs.
On the mound, Mathes picked up his second win in five days with five strikeouts over two innings. Senior Brody Gunderman picked up four strikeouts while facing six batters in 1 1/3 innings.
The Cubs return to the diamond Wednesday in Chanute for a tilt against the Comets, then jump back into Tri-Valley Conference play Thursday against Fredonia.
First pitch for Wednesday’s game is set for 4:30 p.m.
