Carl Junction starter Ethan Frack came within one out of a no-hitter to lead Carl Junction past Republic 5-1 in the Tigers’ season opener at home Friday night. Frack struck out five, walked four, and allowed just a single unearned run.
The Bulldogs broke a scoreless tie in the top of the 4th inning when they scratched out two runs against Republic starter Chandler Coates. Zach Snodgrass started the rally with a one-out double. After Coates struck out Ryan Devore, Conner Day put Carl Junction on the board with a single to left field. Two more singles by the next two batters resulted in a second run and gave the Bulldogs a 2-0 lead.
Republic got a run back in the bottom of the 6th. Dylan Snodgrass drew a leadoff walk. After a fielder’s choice and a line-out, Ryan Cape chopped a ball in front of home plate. A throwing error allowed Austin Atkins to come around to score, making it 2-1 Carl Junction.
Carl Junction struck back with three more runs off relief pitcher Tyler Mackey in the top of the 7th to stretch the lead to 5-1.
Republic threatened in the bottom of the 7th with a two-out double by Gage Morris and a walk to Landin Sigman, but Dylan Snodgrass grounded out to end the game.
Coates pitched four innings, allowing two runs, striking out four and walking one. Tyler Mackey allowed three runs in 2 2/3 innings of relief. Riley Russell got the final out, pitching 1/3 of an inning.
Austin Atkins walked twice and scored the Tigers’ only run.
Republic falls to 0-1. The JV Tigers also lost, 2-0 in the nightcap.