Springs Valley Community High School

The Springs Valley baseball team traveled to Mitchell on Friday for a conference matchup with Orange County rival Paoli. One big inning would give the Rams the victory as they defeated the Blackhawks 9-5. Paoli drew first blood in the bottom of the second, but Springs Valley responded with three run in the top of the third. The following half inning would prove to be tragic for the ‘Hawks as they allowed seven runs to score thanks in part to two errors and four consecutive walks. They’d respond with two runs in the top of the fourth, but that would be the last time they scored. In the top of the seventh the Blackhawks would load the bases with just one out, but the rally would fall well short as Paoli turned a double play to end the game. Henry Cruz was superb for Springs Valley on Friday. The senior went 3-3 with a triple — the Blackhawks’ lone extra-base hit of the game — an RBI and a walk. He also stole a base. Konner Chase was also strong, going 2-4 with two runs scored and three stolen bases. Mavrick Land got the start for Springs Valley on the mound. He pitched two innings, allowing seven runs, four earned, on five hits and three walks. Chase relieved him and went nearly four innings, allowing two runs, both earned, on two hits and a walk. He struck one out. Braylon Kovas got the final out of the sixth inning after allowing one hit. The loss is the first for Springs Valley (5-9, 2-3 PLAC) against the Rams since 2018, snapping the Blackhawks’ five-game winning streak against their rival. It’s also their third loss in their last four games. They’ll take the field next on Saturday when they host South Central (Elizabeth). RAMS 9, BLACKHAWKS 5 Springs Valley (5-9);003;200;0—5;7;4 Paoli (5-6);017;001;0—9;8;4 W: Rominger. L: Land. 2B: Hughes, Milner. 3B: Cruz.