Bronco Baseball vs. TMP Suspended by High Winds
Unexpected high winds ended up suspending the Russell-Victoria Baseball Doubleheader with TMP-Marian-LaCrosse with two out in the top of the fifth inning of Game 1 at the Shaffer Field Sports Complex Friday afternoon with the Broncos in front by a score of 3-0.
Russell-Victoria scored in the bottom of the first inning after starting pitcher Jackson Cross retired the Monarchs in order in the top half of the frame. Andrew Roth reached base on a wild pitch that occurred as he struck out, stole second base and came home on Cross' double to centerfield.
At the end of the second inning play was halted when lightning was detected in the area. Though very little rain fell, high winds pelted the ballpark and a 68 MPH wind gust was recorded at Russell Municipal Airport. Play resumed in the top of the third after a one hour, 23 minute delay.
The Broncos added to their lead in the bottom of the fourth inning when with two out and Brayden Drake who was at first base after reaching on a single, Roth beat out an infield hit. Mason Rohr walked and Cross struck a single to center that scored Drake and Roth to increase Russell-Victoria's advantage to 3-0.
In the top of the fifth inning, wind gusts from a Thunderstorm in Ellis County, made playing conditions practically impossible as dirt blowing on the infield affected visibility. Twice during the half inning, play was stopped as Bronco coach Allan Penka and TMP coach Aaron Breit conferred with the two umpires and the decision was made to suspend the game with two outs in the top of the fifth leaving Russell-Victoria one out shy of recording an official victory.
No decision has been made as to when the doubleheader with the Monarchs might resume or where the games might be played. Russell-Victoria is next scheduled to be in action on Thursday, May 5 when they host former North Central Activities Association opponent Southeast of Saline for a doubleheader at the Shaffer Field Complex. First pitch for Game 1 is scheduled for 4 p.m.