Vale’s Trent Aldred pitches the ball during a game. (The Enterprise/File photo)
VALE – The Vikings used two strong pitching performances to notch wins over Nyssa and Weiser last week.
Vale defeated Nyssa 9-2 April 4 in a league contest and then beat Weiser, 7-3 in a non-league game April 5.
While the Vikings put their bats to good use – scoring 16 runs over the two games – it was the play from the mound that made the difference, said coach Rick Yraguen.
Against Nyssa, Matt McBride racked up 16 strikeouts and gave up only two hits.
“He got himself out of trouble in the sixth, after loading the bases with no outs. He struck out two and had an infield pop-up and the rest of the game he was in control,” said Yraguen.
In the Weiser game, Andrew Harmon threw five innings, recorded nine strikeouts and gave up just one hit.
“It was great to see Andrew throw well. Matt McBride was really good on the mound. If we get Andrew and Matt to pitch like they did in the last two games we are going to be tough in doubleheaders,” said Yraguen.
Tanner Hamilton and Colton Kesey each had one hit and an RBI against the Bulldogs. McBride finished the game with three RBIs while Harmon and Jared Fulwyler each finished with two hits. Trent Aldred had one hit and drove in an RBI against Nyssa.
The Vikings were strong at the plate against Weiser, piling up seven hits. Kesey paced the Viking attack with three hits and an RBI while McBride had one hit and an RBI. Harmon, Jason Ponce and Aldred each had one hit.
This week Vale (1-0) faced Burns/Crane Tuesday and then travels to Wallowa County Friday to play Joseph/Enterprise/Wallowa/Elgin in a twin bill.
“Both of those are big games for us,” said Yraguen.
Reporter Pat Caldwell: [email protected] or 541-473-3377.
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