125th Article at the Independent

Royals force Game 3 with 9-8 win over Fox Lake

RUTHTON — The Ruthton Royals faced off against the Fox Lake Foxes in Game 2 of the best of three series in the Region 13C playoffs and ended up winning in comeback fashion, 9-8, forcing a Game 3.

The last time these two teams played against each other in Ruthton, the Royals won a 1-0 thriller. With the Royals losing Game 1, this was a must win situation for them hosting game two.

Starting pitcher for the Royals Jared Baartman pitched 7 2/3 inning and struck out six in the victory. Teammates Eric Wiering had two hits and three RBI. Mitchell Bieber got the save, also was hot from the plate, nabbing three hits and four RBI in the contest.

First pitch for Game 3 Sunday is at 2 p.m in Truman.