Big Third Inning Lifts Braves Past Metamora

Mt. Zion used a big third inning to pull away for a 9-6 victory over on Thursday.

Metamora struck first in the opening inning when Jones singled to drive in a run for a 1-0 lead.

The Braves answered in the top of the second as AJ Miller launched a two-run home run to left field, putting Mt. Zion ahead 2-1.

Metamora quickly regained the advantage in the bottom half of the inning. RBI singles by Petri and Smith helped the hosts move in front 4-2.

Back came Mt. Zion responding with its biggest inning of the game in the third, erupting for six runs on five hits to take control. Keegan Durbin delivered the key hit of the inning, ripping a two-run double on an 0-2 count as the Braves surged ahead 8-4.

Connor Fox added insurance in the sixth inning with a solo home run to center field.

The Braves finished with 10 hits in the victory. Brock Foster and Fox each collected two hits, while Durbin and Miller each drove in two runs. Mt. Zion also turned a double play defensively.

Jaxson Nickell earned the win for the Braves. The right-hander allowed six hits and five runs, only one earned, over three innings while striking out three and walking one. LJ Renfro provided strong relief work, tossing four innings and allowing one run on four hits with two strikeouts and one walk.

Mt. Zion hosted Tolono on Tuesday, St. Joe on 5/13, Taylorville 5/13, @ Taylorville 5/14, home vs. Springfield 5/15, Roxana on 5/18, and Centennial 5/19.