May 7/12

The Crookston Reds, a Class C amateur baseball team, had their season opener Sunday with a huge 18-4 win over the Thief River Falls Thieves at Jim Karn Field.

Catcher Ben Wilson led the Reds at the plate, going 3 for 5 with a double, three runs scored and three RBI. Second baseman Paul Smith went 2 for 4 in the leadoff spot with two doubles and two walks, three runs scored and an RBI. Designated hitter Kit Gilbert was 2 for 3 with two runs and two RBI.

"I thought our sticks were really warm today," said Red Player/Manager Justin Johnson, who did not play due to a rolled ankle. "We didn't field it as good as we hit it but it was really good."

Chito Longoria started on the mound for the Reds, going four innings and allowing one earned run on five hits and two walks. Morin pitched two scoreless innings and Cole Ricard closed out the seven-inning game.

"I was really impressed with Chito," said Johnson. "I thought he was really strong. Matt Morin pitched well. Cole did everything I thought he could do and more. That was really good to see."

The Reds are now off until May 27 when they take on the Fertile Bees on the road in a doubleheader.

To start the season Johnson's three starters are Aaron Motl, Longoria and Morin. He says Dillon Nelson could join the rotation later on. Nelson, who redshirted last season for St. Thomas University baseball.

"It depends on Dillon," said Johnson. "If he's able to go right away. That's one of our question marks to be filled. He's dealing with an arm injury.

"Those will be our four go-to guys," Johnson continued. "Possible relief roles include: Josh Mosher, Bill Sullivan and Cole Ricard as the closer if he continues to throw the way he did today. Taylor Morlan will also be asked to pitch too."

Story by

(Derek Martin) crookton Daily times