Less than one week after M-CHS junior Cutter Matthews said that his team needed work on its hitting, the Panthers offense exploded in route to a 13-3 five-inning victory over Monticello on April 11.
“Guys definitely relaxed and hit the ball hard,” Panthers manager Tim Passell said. “Patience was the key in this win. It was definitely a good trip.”
Leading the way for the clearly hungry Panthers hitters was senior Coby Baer, who went 3-3 at the plate, scored four runs, and registered a team-high five RBIs.
Junior Jasen Engel also enjoyed a solid day at the plate with three hits in three at bats and four RBIs.
“Coby Baer really hit the ball hard,” Passell said. “He hit the ball painfully hard.”
As a team, the Panthers cranked out 10 hits and outscored Monticello 11-1 over the final three innings after the two teams ended the second inning tied, 2-2.
Baer earned the win on the mound for the Panthers by pitching five innings in the contest and giving up just one earned run. Mixing his sizzling fastball with occasional off-speed pitches, the senior struck out struck out eight total batters.
“It’s always good to get (Baer) up on the hill,” Passell said. “He’s such a competitor and he’s going to give you everything. It’s just great to watch.”
Now 4-7 on the season, M-CHS will look to continue its winning streak during a road doubleheader against Pagosa Springs on April 15.