Bothell extended their losing streak to four on Thursday, dropping them down to 5-5. They lost 12-6 to the Eastlake Wolves. The Cougars were given a dose of their own medicine in this game as the Wolves apparently hadn't forgotten their loss the last time these teams played back in May of 2025.
Cam Wallace was cooking despite his team's loss, going 2-for-3 with two stolen bases, three RBI, and two runs. Ayden McMurdo also deserves some recognition as he snagged his first stolen base of the season.
As for Eastlake, the win was the fourth in a row for them, bringing their record up to 7-3. The team dominated over that stretch too, winning by an average of 5.2 runs.
On Eastlake's side, Cruz Payne made a big impact no matter where he played. He looked comfortable on the mound, striking out six batters over three innings while giving up no earned runs off one hit (and not a single walk). Payne has been consistent recently: he hasn't given up more than one earned run in three consecutive appearances. He was also big at the plate, going 1-for-4 with two RBI, one run, and one double.
In other pitching news, Mason King looked comfortable as he tossed 2.2 innings while giving up just one earned run off one hit.
Back at the plate, Jayden Matsuoka was incredible, going 3-for-4 with two stolen bases, three runs, and three RBI. He continues to improve, besting his previous run total in each of the last three games he's played. Ben Byeman was another key player, getting on base in four of his five plate appearances with three runs and one stolen base.
We've got plenty of inter-district action coming up soon. Bothell will challenge rival North Creek at 6:00 p.m. on Friday. Meanwhile, Eastlake is set to face off against their familiar foe Issaquah at 4:00 p.m. on Friday.