The Franklin Park Bobcats opened up their baseball season in style, with a 12-1 victory on the road at Woodlawn.
Salem’s offense got going in the opening inning scoring 3 runs and never looked back. Payton Gullion finished 3-4 with 3 RBI and 2 runs scored; Jaret Gibson also had a 3-hit day and scored 3 times. Landon Maxey added 2 hits and 2 RBI, Avery Gullion and Max Vincent drove in runs and Caleb Squibb came off the bench for a 2-out, pinch hit 2 run single that extended the lead to 11 and forced the short game.
The run support was more than enough for starting pitcher Evan Barnes. The left hander went 5.1 innings allowing just 2 hits and a run that wasn’t earned with 11 strikeouts and only 3 walks. Avery Gullion came in to get the final 2 outs.
Coach Brian Lipe admitted he wasn’t sure what to expect in the opening game, but liked what he saw.
Salem Returns to action tomorrow with a double header at Newton before opening up their home schedule Monday against Carmi.
