Athletics News

Gonzalez drives in two and pitching dominates in Indians' scrimmage win

Diego Gonzalez drove in two to back a combined 2-hit shutout in a 3-0 road win Thursday for the Indians at Hart County to start the season.

It was a pitcher's duel after four frames, as neither team could scratch across a run until the fifth. The Indians used a Caden Walker hit by pitch to set the stage for the first run. Walker swiped second base, then stole third moments later. Gonzalez skied one to center, deep enough for Walker to scamper home on the sac fly.

It was all TFS would need, as the pitching held Hart County hitless for 3.1 innings. After Rohajae Pinder hurled two spotless frames, Andrew Skvarka took on the first relief assignment. He worked around a hit and walk in the fourth to keep the game scoreless. Cole Bonitatibus came in following the 1-0 lead for Tallulah Falls, and his work spanned the final three innings.

Walker again jump-started the offense in the seventh, doubling to left to lead it off. He again flashed speed on the base paths by taking third. Gonzalez doubled to center to plate Walker for the 2-0 advantage. Gonzalez scored on an error on David Dutary's ground ball. Bonitatibus retired the side to secure the win.

Gonzalez was 2-for-3 with two RBI, while Walker and Dutary both recorded a hit. Walker had four stolen bases and two runs scored. Skvarka earned the win, while Bonitatibus picked up the 3-inning save. Tallulah Falls officially opens the 2024 campaign at home against East Hall on February 13.