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Lincoln-Way East's nine-run first inning makes quick work of Joliet West

April 17, 2014

By Ryan Quigley
Area Scout

Lincoln-Way East 12, Joliet West 5

Joliet, IL – At Joliet West High School, the Lincoln-Way East Griffins jumped off the bus and came out swinging early, using a nine run first inning to take control in the Southwest Suburban Blue conference opener for both squads.

East (7-4, 1-0) posted eight hits, five consecutive at one point, in the top of the first. Several Joliet West defensive miscues led to six of the nine runs being unearned. Griffins’ uncommitted senior shortstop Aaron Donald was part of the twenty hit parade on the day, going three-for-five with a triple and two RBI.  Junior right hander Brian Christiansen picked up the win in relief, tossing 3.1 innings of one run ball. 

Kenichi Haynie and junior outfielder Joe McNulty also added three hits and two RBI. Class of 2014 No. 73 ranked catcher Evan Sandmann (Dallas Baptist) impressed behind the plate showing his versatility (also plays middle infield and outfield) adding two singles from the leadoff spot. 

The Tigers (6-5, 0-1) were paced offensively by junior pitcher/third basemen Griffin McGuire (three-for-three, triple, run scored) and junior shortstop Cody Grosse (two-for-four, double, triple).  The slick fielding Grosse, ranked No. 91 in the state of Illinois’ class of 2015, impressed defensively during the game ranging to his right and up the middle on several plays. Senior centerfielder Zach Thomas (Chicago State) showed a patient approach at the plate with three walks.

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