Murphysboro had lost three games at home, but after bumping their record up to 10-12 on Tuesday that streak is in the rearview. They sure made it a nail-biter, but they managed to escape with a 3-2 victory over the Massac County Patriots. That's the second time they've managed to beat them this season, as they also won 8-2 back in April.
Austin Hunter
| 03/29/25 @ Goreville | 7 |
| 03/22/25 vs Waterloo | 4 |
| 04/14/25 vs Harrisburg | 2 |
| 04/08/25 @ Herrin | 2 |
| 03/17/25 vs Hamilton County | 2 |
| + 2 more games |
Austin Hunter was a major factor no matter where he played. On the mound, he didn't allow a single earned run over six innings pitched. He also tossed no earned runs, which is notable because Murphysboro is 4-2 when he allows at most two earned runs, but 6-10 otherwise. Hunter was also solid in the batter's box, going 1-for-3 with one home run. That home run was his first of the season.
In other pitching news, Nathan Evans looked comfortable as he tossed two innings while giving up no earned runs off two hits. He is becoming a predictor of Murphysboro's success: when he allows at most one earned run the team is 4-1 (and 6-11 when he doesn't).
Hunter wasn't the only one making solid contact as three players wound up with at least one hit. One of them was Oliver Kartje, who went 2-for-3 with one RBI. That's the most hits Kartje has posted since back in March.
As for Massac County, they have been struggling recently as they've lost three of their last four matches. That's put a noticeable dent in their 13-4 record this season. They have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.
On Massac County's side, Zach Maurer spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: he surrendered three earned runs on three hits. Maurer has been consistent for a while: he hasn't given up more than one walk in ten consecutive appearances.
On the hitting side, Max Elliott was cooking despite his team's loss, going 2-for-4 with two stolen bases, one run, and one double. He is on a roll when it comes to stolen bases, as he's now snagged at least one in each of the last three games he's played.
Murphysboro wasted no time getting back out on the field and has already played their next contest, a 7-6 loss against Pinckneyville on the 7th. As for Massac County, they will venture away from home to challenge Anna-Jonesboro at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday.
