Bulldogs sweep Emeralds

MANISTIQUE — The Rudyard Bulldogs swept a non-conference baseball doubheader over the Manistique Emeralds Wednesday.

In the opening game, the Bulldogs downed the Emeralds 8-7. Both teams finished with eight hits. For the Bulldogs, EJ Sugitt and Tanner Baker had doubles, while Aiden Bickel, Cam Peterson, Austin Warner, Brett Mayer, Eli Sprague and Landen Mayer added one hit apiece. 

Suggitt also collected the pitching win, working 3 2-3 innings and allowing four runs on four hits, while striking out six and walking four. Tate Besteman and Landen Mayer both made relief appearances.

“We did a good job getting the lead early,” Rudyard coach Billy Mitchell said. “Manistique did a good job of making a run at the end. Landen coming in and throwing strikes in a pressure situation and getting the final three outs and not give up a run. He has been doing a good job of coming in the game in relief and throwing strikes.” 

Rudyard completed the sweep by taking a 7-1 win over the Emeralds in Game 2. 

Rudyard’s Kallen Lawlor recorded the win, limiing the Emeralds to just three hits and one run over five innnigs, while striking out two and walking two. Landen Mayer pitched one inning of scoreless relief. 

The Bulldogs generated seven runs on six hits. Besteman and Brett Mayer had two hits each, while Suggitt added a double, and Baker had a single.  

“It was good for the boys confidence to be able to finish off the second game and get the sweep,” Mitchell said. “If we want to have post season success, we need to learn how to go to the ball field and win 2 games. Districts and the regional final/quarterfinal days are like that.” 

The Bulldogs were coming off a split against Sault Ste. Marie, in which they won the first game but lost by a lopsided score in the second game after falling behind big in the first inning. 

“After the game the other day in the Sault, we stressed the importance to come out and get an early lead in game 2,” Mitchell said. “Kallen pitched a great game and we played defense behind him. Our offense is coming together and some guys are stepping up and getting key hits for us.” 

Rudyard is scheduled to visit Rogers City Saturday.

Contact Sports Editor Rob Roos at rroos@sooeveningnews.com. Follow him on Twitter, @rroosTEN.