In a display of offensive firepower that left spectators in awe, the Varsity Wildcats orchestrated a devastating nine-run rally in the second inning to cruise past the Aragon Dons 12-1 on Saturday afternoon.
The Wildcats' bats came alive in spectacular fashion during the pivotal second frame, turning a competitive contest into a rout. The offensive onslaught featured a disciplined approach at the plate mixed with timely hitting. DJ Delaney drew a crucial walk to force in a run, while Beau Schaffer and AJ Wineinger delivered clutch singles that plated two runs apiece. The backbreaking blow came off the bat of Jack Callen, whose bases-clearing single drove in four runs, effectively putting the game out of reach.
St. Ignatius had already established their offensive rhythm in the bottom of the first, when Schaffer lofted a sacrifice fly that brought home two runners, followed by Tycco Giometti's productive groundout that pushed the lead to 3-0.
On the mound, Spencer Guido was masterful in earning the victory for the Wildcats. The right-hander tossed two spotless innings, surrendering just one hit while recording four strikeouts and issuing no walks. The St. Ignatius bullpen was equally impressive, as Archer Horn, Luke Miller, and Charlie Stecher combined to shut down the Dons' offense over the final three frames.
Schaffer was the offensive catalyst for St. Ignatius, driving in a team-high three runs while going a perfect 1-for-1 at the dish. Wineinger paced the Wildcats' hit parade with a 2-for-2 performance. The Wildcats demonstrated exceptional plate discipline throughout the contest, drawing nine walks with Horn and Delaney each working two free passes. The aggressive baserunning approach paid dividends as well, with the team swiping five bags including Horn's two stolen bases.
Defensively, the Wildcats were flawless, committing no errors behind their pitching staff. Will Coleman anchored the defense with five chances handled cleanly.
The Wildcats will look to build on this dominant performance when they return to action Tuesday on their home diamond against the Bellarmine Bells.
