Homer had lost three straight at home, but on Thursday they dropped their record down to 7-6 to make it four. They lost 13-0 to the Kenai Central Kardinals. The Mariners were not able to repeat the success they had when they faced the Kardinals earlier this season, when they won 12-7.
As for Kenai Central, their win bumped their record up to 6-3. Considering they have won three matchups by more than five runs this season, Thursday's blowout was nothing new.
For Kenai Central's part, Jacob Joanis was a major factor no matter where he played. He looked comfortable on the mound, not allowing a single earned run and allowing only one hit while striking out nine over five innings pitched. Joanis also tossed no earned runs, which is notable because Kenai Central is undefeated when he allows at most one earned run, but 2-3 otherwise. Joanis was also big at the plate, getting on base in three of his four plate appearances with two stolen bases, three runs, and one RBI.
In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Braden Smith, who went 2-for-3 with two stolen bases, three runs, and one triple. That triple marked the first that he has hit this season. Avery Martin was another key player, getting on base in three of his four plate appearances with three runs and one stolen base.
Coincidentally, Homer and Kenai Central will both be playing Grace Christian the next time they take the field. The Mariners will host the Grizzlies at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, while the Kardinals will host them at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps