The varsity baseball team from Lincoln-Way West delivered a commanding performance on Tuesday, defeating Shepard 13-0 in an away game.
According to the match report, the Warriors established an early lead in the first inning with Michael Pettit’s RBI single. They extended their advantage in the third inning, taking advantage of a walk by Zach Hermanson and a groundout by Anthony Vita.
The fifth inning was particularly significant for Lincoln-Way West, as they scored six runs on just two hits. Conor Essenburg's two-run single initiated the rally, followed by an error that allowed another run. Jackson Mansker then hit an inside-the-park home run, driving in three runs.
Adam Gerl secured the win for Lincoln-Way West by pitching three hitless innings with eight strikeouts and no walks. Ben Joynt concluded the game with two shutout innings, striking out two and walking two. The Warriors' pitching staff collectively achieved a no-hitter over five innings.
Mansker led his team with three RBIs, finishing 1-for-4 at bat. Essenburg excelled as well, going 2-for-2 and scoring twice. The Warriors demonstrated strong plate discipline, drawing 11 walks overall. Essenburg, Hermanson, and Owen Weber each drew two walks.
On the basepaths, Lincoln-Way West was both aggressive and effective, stealing eight bases in total. Lucas Acevedo and Essenburg each stole multiple bases. Defensively, the team maintained sharpness by turning one double play.
Shepard's pitching staff faced challenges throughout the game, combining for 11 walks and allowing several unearned runs. Despite turning a double play defensively, they were unable to halt the Warriors' momentum.
Lincoln-Way West's dominant performance not only improved their early season form but also highlighted their strength across all aspects of the game. Their next challenge will be against the Marist RedHawks on Wednesday as they aim to maintain their winning streak.