News-Times Staff
PARKERS CHAPEL - Cade Wilkerson fired a two-hit shutout, and Monta Thomas hit a two-run triple, as Hermitage topped Bearden 8-0 in the opening contest of the 7-2A East District Tournament on Wednesday at Robert McKinnon Park.
The Hermits advance to take on Parkers Chapel tonight at 6:30 p.m. with a spot in the regional spot at stake. Thomas highlighted a three-run first by showing just how much of a weapon his speed is.
Thomas led off the frame by bunting for a base hit and stealing second and third base before scoring the game's first run on a passed ball.
Hunter Saunders, who scored the second of Hermitage's three runs in the opening inning, drove in a run in the second with a sacrifice fly. The score then remained unchanged until the fifth when Thomas ripped a two-tun triple to the fence in right before scoring on a wild pitch to give the Hermits some breathing room.
The Hermits tacked on a run in the sixth to make the final margin.
Wilkerson turned in a sterling effort on the mound, finishing with nine strikeouts and three walks.
Gage Word went the distance for the Bears, taking the loss with a six-hitter.
Cohen Ward and Rylee Rauls had Bearden's hits.