Athens couldn't capitalize on their home-field advantage in their season opener. They fell 8-4 to the Spencer Rockets on Monday. Athens was given a dose of their own medicine in this game as Spencer apparently hadn't forgotten their loss the last time these teams played back in May of 2022.
For Spencer's part, Reed Knecht was a major factor no matter where he played. On the mound, he struck out six batters over four innings while giving up just one earned (and one unearned) run off two hits. Knecht was also stellar in the batter's box, scoring three runs and stealing three bases while getting on base in three of his four plate appearances.
In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Kayden Diestsche, who went 2-for-3 with a triple, two RBI, and a run. Another player making a difference was Austyn Widmann, who scored two runs and stole three bases while going 1-for-3.
Athens will head out on the road to challenge Newman at 4:45 p.m. on Tuesday. As for Spencer, they will square off against Auburndale at 4:45 p.m. on Thursday.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
