It can be hard to translate regular season success to the playoffs, but Hardee had no problem doing just that on Thursday. They had just enough and edged the McKeel Academy Wildcats out 3-2. The victory was nothing new for Hardee as they're now sitting on eight straight.
Hardee got a great performance from Ryan Rivas as he pitched six innings while giving up just one earned (and one unearned) run off six hits. Rivas has been consistent recently: he hasn't given up more than two walks in three consecutive pitching appearances.
On the hitting side, the team relied heavily on Ryland Beumel, who went 1-for-3 with a home run and three RBI.
On McKeel Academy's side, Caleb Clanton spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: he surrendered only one earned (and two unearned) runs on three hits and racked up eight Ks.
At the plate, McKeel Academy saw seven different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Kaden Howell, who went 2-for-2 with a home run and a stolen base.
Hardee has been performing incredibly well recently as they've won ten of their last 11 contests, which provided a nice bump to their 17-6 record this season. As for McKeel Academy, their defeat dropped their record down to 21-5.
Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Hardee will take on Estero at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday. The last six games Hardee has played have been within two runs, so don't be surprised if it's a close one. As for McKeel Academy, their homestand will continue as they prepare to take on Robinson at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday. McKeel Academy's pitching crew has only allowed 2.1 runs per game this season, so Robinson's hitters will have their work cut out for them.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
