Last Monday night the Eagles baseball boys headed to Garner Hayfield Ventura high to challenge the Cardinals on their home turf. Spectators were destined to witness an incredible pitcher's battle between Eagle Grove's Jake Jeske, and GHV's Sam Wood.
The Eagles started things out by getting on the board with 1 to none in the 1st. But the 2nd and 3 came up empty for both teams. Already it was clear that this was a pitcher's duel, as both teams rallied around their pitcher's mound and played strong defense.
In the 4th the Cardinals took the lead by 1, scoring 2 while keeping the Eagles from running the bases. Then it was another inning of holding each other off for a scoreless 5th.
In the 6th both teams escalated their offense, and both got on the scoreboard. Twice for the Eagle, thrice for the Cardinals. Then the 7th was back to strong defense on both sides, with neither putting a runner across the plate or a ball over the back fence. Giving the Cardinals the win, 5 to 3.
Jake Jeske was the clear MVP for the Eagles, striking out 10 in 6 innings pitching, while allowing only 1 base to be stolen and leading a defense that kept the Cardinals from scoring through most of the game. His opponent in the pitcher's duel, Sam Wood, also had a strong game, pitching 6 and 2/3rds innings, and also striking out 10, but allowing 4 stolen bases. Cayden Schultz was the leading batter for the Eagles, with 2 hits, a run, an RBI, and a double.
