A three run fifth inning plus outstanding plays on defense helped the Knoxville Baseball Squad usher Chariton to the sidelines in the class 3A district last night by a score of 5-2. The Panthers and starting pitcher Ben Wallace were in a first inning bases-loaded jam when Knoxville turned a double play where D.J. Snyder picked up the ball threw out the runner coming home, then catcher Patrick Crawford threw a perfect strike to first baseman Calyn Bumgartner for the twin killing. Crawford was also involved in another spectacular play on a bunt attempt by Chariton in the fifth inning. The Panthers got one run in the first and second innings to go up 2-0, but the Chargers tied it in the fifth. Knoxville responded with three runs to forge ahead 5-2. Two of those runs courtesy of the Panthers catcher on a two RBI double. Coach Joel Johnson told KNIA/KRLS Sports after a rough start on the mound from Wallace he settled down and his teammates recorded some big outs. Ben Wallace pitched a complete game in getting the win allowing two runs on six hits, three walks and two strikeouts. Knoxville is now 19-17 on the season and guarantees a winning season for the Panthers. Knoxville will battle rival Pella for the Class 3A District title Monday night in Pella. A game you can hear live on KNIA and KRLS.
at Pella
Chariton 000 020 0 – 2 6 1
Knoxville 110 030 x – 5 8 3
WP – Ben Wallace (7-2)
LP – Kobey Reichmann (5-3)
Knoxville (19-17)
Chariton (16-16)