GAULT PROVIDES THE HEAT; LIONS POUND EP
NEW WATERFORD, OH- Drew Gault has been working towards days like these. In a dazzling display of power-hitting, Drew Gault led the charge for the Heartland Christian as they clinched a decisive 12-2 win over East Palestine on Monday. Gault’s impressive performance, highlighted by two home runs and five RBIs, stole the spotlight and propelled his team to victory.
Gault wasted no time making his mark, launching homers in both the second and fourth innings to ignite the Lions’ offense and send the crowd into a frenzy.
Despite East Palestine striking first with a run in the opening frame, the Lions quickly responded, seizing the lead in the bottom of the inning. Brett Walker’s timely single drove in two runs, giving Heartland Christian the early advantage.
East Palestine managed to tie the game in the second inning, but Gault’s homer in the bottom half of the inning swung the momentum back in favor of the Lions, propelling them to a 5-2 lead.
The Lions continued to pile on the runs, with Tyler Rarick adding another tally in the third by stealing home. However, it was the explosive fourth inning that truly showcased Heartland Christian’s offensive prowess. Gault’s second homer of the game, coupled with errors that allowed additional runs to score, extended the Lions’ lead to a commanding 10-run margin.
On the mound, Jake Walker delivered a gutsy performance, stifling East Palestine’s offense and securing the win for the Lions. Walker’s six innings of work saw him allowing just three hits and two runs while racking up an impressive eight strikeouts.
Despite East Palestine’s efforts, they were unable to contain the Lions’ relentless offense and solid defense. Heartland Christian’s aggressive baserunning, highlighted by six stolen bases, kept the pressure on their opponents throughout the game.
With contributions from players like Rarick and Owen Bender, who stole multiple bases, and a patient approach at the plate that resulted in six walks, the Lions showcased their depth and versatility on both sides of the ball.
For East Palestine, Phoenix Marvin started the game on the bump, and surrendered three hits and two runs (one earned) over one inning, striking out one and walking none. Payyon Rutledge took the tough loss for East Palestine. The reliever went one and one-third innings, surrendering one run on three hits, striking out two and walking one.
Offensively, EP’s Marvin, Logan Guy, and Jason Robb each collected one hit for East Palestine. Morrison and Beatty each drove in one run for the Bulldogs.
As they look ahead to their next matchup, Heartland Christian will prepare to face Ursuline on Tuesday at the Ace of Diamonds facility.
