by Cleveland Heights, Ohio – Thanks to a five-run third inning, the Benedictine Bengals picked up their first victory of the 2021 season, defeating host Cleveland Heights, 7-1.
Monday’s contest was the first home game at Cleveland Heights’ newly renovated field since 2015. The Tigers played at Forest Hills Park from 2016 to 2019.
After a scoreless first two frames, the Bengals made their move in the third.
After a misplay in the outfield put a runner on second base, AJ Slemc put the Bengals on the board with a single to right field.
Sophomore infielder Cory Misconish followed up with an RBI single of his own to left field, increasing the score to 2-0. The Bengals would add another run on an error at second base to increase their lead to 3-0. After two strikeouts, senior catcher Kevin Finucan hit a two-run single to left to increase the lead to 5-0.
“We started off slow, but when you get runners on base and get them in, good things happen.” said Finucan.
Cleveland Heights picked up their lone run in the bottom of the fourth inning on a bases-loaded walk by senior Vincent Bellini. But that was all the offense they could muster on the afternoon.
Senior infielder Ronnie Schultz hit a double to left field in the fifth to increase the lead to 6-1. The Bengals would add one more in the 7th on a throwing error for the final margin.
Benedictine sophomore pitcher Dawson Williams picked up his first varsity win, throwing 3 2/3 innings, only giving up one run on four hits, walking four, and striking out a batter. Sophomore Cole Ericcson came on in relief, going 4 1/3 innings, allowing just two hits and striking out five batters.
“I’m really happy for our guys most importantly. It’s great for the kids to get back out playing.” said Benedictine head coach John Ellis. “Dawson (Williams) did a heck of a job. Hats off to him. Cole (Emerson) came in and both of those guys are sophomores who are learning the game. It’s great when you can throw strikes and let the other team put the ball in play.” he added.
Cleveland Heights senior pitcher Adam Heintz threw 88 pitches in five innings Monday afternoon. He gave up four earned runs on four hits, walked none, hit a batter, and struck out eight.
“It feels great to play a game at our home field in front of our fans. It’s a great experience for our kids.” said Cleveland Heights head coach Ed Mugridge. “The pitching is solid, and the errors are something that can be corrected. We’ve got guys that are learning some new positions. Our pitching was outstanding today, we just had some errors in the field.” he added.
Benedictine improves to 1-2 and travels to St. Vincent-St. Mary Wednesday afternoon.
Cleveland Heights drops to 0-1 and hosts Brush Wednesday afternoon.
