The Wildcats were shut out for the first time this season against Class 2 No. 1 Russellville in a 5-0 semifinal loss of the Class 3 District 7 Tournament in New Bloomfield. The Indians (24-4) scored all of their runs in the first three innings while limiting New Bloomfield to four hits.
After his standout performance in the team’s 4-1 quarterfinal victory Friday against Vienna, Michael Saleny matched up with Russellville’s Charlie Miller, who struck out nine and walked one through seven innings.
Saleny had to pitch around an outfield error in the first inning and didn’t come out unscathed as Logan Cinotto hit s two-run double before Jesse Daniel added a two-out single for a 3-0 lead.
Miller supported his own cause with a solo home run to lead off the third inning, and then Daniel doubled to score another, finishing the day 3-for-3 with two RBI.
Saleny ended is day on the mound with his seventh strikeout and finished with a line of eight hits, five runs (two earned) and two walks.
New Bloomfield had two runners on in the sixth inning but didn’t score after Saleny grounded into a fielder’s choice and then was ruled as third out due to offensive interference. Miller struck out the side in the seventh inning.
Lucas Buscher went 2-for-3, and Saleny and Brendon Carter each had a hit.
New Bloomfield finishes 8-10 overall and 1-5 in the Show-Me Conference.