CLARKSVILLE – Bedford North Lawrence erupted for eight runs in the first inning en route to a 12-8 road victory over Class 2A No.10 Providence during high school baseball action on Thursday.
The Stars sent 12 batters to the plate during the early surge and took advantage of five walks in that frame. BNL improved to 15-6 with its third straight win.
“That’s the best team we have played this year,” BNL coach Steven McNabb said. “Cutler (Chastain) and Cal (Gates) battled against the best lineup we have seen. They do a great job.”
Lucas Ira started the scoring with a two-run single, Chastain came through with a RBI single, Jackson Jones belted a two-run double, and Gates added a sacrifice fly during the first-inning fireworks.
BNL added four runs in the fifth to post a 12-2 lead, with Gates driving in two runs, before the Pioneers closed the gap in the late innings.
“We made some big plays, took advantage of some mistakes from them in the first inning and left there with a big win,” McNabb said. “I’m super proud of our guys as we continue to battle and find ways to compete and win ballgames.”
Jared Gilbert was 3 for 3 and scored twice while Gates had 2 hits and 3 RBIs. Chastain earned the win on the mound, working four innings and surrendering only three hits, while Gates struck out four in the final three innings.
Blake Straub cranked a home run and drove in three runs for the Pioneers (11-7).
The Stars will host Paoli and celebrate Senior Day on Friday.
