Strong fifth frame propels New Kent to win over Lafayette

New Kent’s Michael Hetzel makes a dive for home plate and a Trojan score.

Robb Johnson photo

With a strong returning cast, New Kent High School’s baseball team is looking to continue their dominance on the diamond. The Mar. 18 season home opener provided an early positive outlook for the Trojans.

A breakout in the bottom of the fifth inning proved to be the difference-maker as New Kent defeated Lafayette 5-1 in the Bay Rivers match-up.

After the Rams pushed across a run in the top of the inning, New Kent answered in the bottom portion of the frame. Andrew Staskiel drew a walk to get on base. Two batters later, a bunt by Grayson Hobson resulted in Lafayette throwing the ball wildly to first base, allowing the Trojan baserunners to get into scoring position. Sophomore Bady Cash’s base hit to center field drove home Staskiel and Hobson, giving the hosts their first lead of the contest (2-1).

An intentional walk by Lafayette to New Kent’s Lane Boyette backfired, as Michael Hetzel’s single brought home Cash. A sacrifice fly by Dylan Bowman drove home Boyette, while Tyler Warren’s base knock allowed Hetzel to cross home, giving the hosts a 5-1 lead as the frame closed out. From there, the New Kent defense held serve, closing out the last two frames of the contest.

The Trojans improve to 2-0 on the season.