Hustlers mount four-game win streak

The Hustlers were led on offense by Hood River’s Tyson Baker (2-for-4, two RBI) and The Dalles duo of sophomores Gunnar Bustos (1-for-4, RBI) and Sawyer Case (1-for-3, two RBI). The quartet of pitchers Bustos, Sherman’s Drake Dark, The Dalles High’s Chase Peterson and Wyatt Bolton of Goldendale combined for eight strikeouts, three walks and seven earned runs.

The Hustlers then traveled to Portland for a June 18 doubleheader, earning a sweep — 6-3 and 13-8 scores — over RCBC Legion 25 at McDaniel High School. Landon Pratt, an HRV sophomore, helped lead the Hustlers to the win with a sparkling performance on the mound. Pratt struck out 10, walked five and tossed a three-hitter while pitching the complete game.

Evan Ortega (two RBI), Baker (1-for-4, two RBI) and Case (RBI) led the Hustler offense, which included six hits.

The Hustlers extended their win streak to four straight with their Game 2 win in six innings. The Hustlers overcame a 6-1 deficit with a 10-run offensive surge in the bottom of the second inning to take an 11-6 advantage.

The Hustlers outhit RCBC, 9-8, and they were led offensively by Case (2-for-3, three RBI), Peterson (1-for-4, two RBI), Baker (2-for-4, two RBI), Kale Beardmore (RBI), Cannon Stock (1-for-1, RBI) and Pratt (1-for-3, RBI). The quartet of pitchers Ortega, Bustos, Dark and Stocks combined for seven strikeouts and nine walks.

The Hustlers then had their win streak snapped in an 11-9 home loss June 20 to Philomath in the first game of a doubleheader at Quinton Street Ballpark. The Hustlers were outhit 15-7. They were led offensively by Ortega (2-for-5, RBI), Stocks (1-for-2, RBI) and Peterson (1-for-3, RBI).

The Hustlers bounced back and won Game 2 16-6 in a contest shortened to five innings via the 10-run Mercy Rule. The pitching trio of starter Peterson and relievers Bustos and Columbia High Bruin sophomore Cameron Collins combined to toss a three-hitter with five strikeouts and five walks. The offense was led by Pratt (3-for-3, five RBI), Ortega (2-for-3, three RBI), Peterson (1-for-3, RBI) and Bustos (2-for-4, three RBI).

The Hustlers continue their summer league schedule with a 5 p.m. home contest versus Newberg on June 25, followed by a tournament at Philomath June 27-29.