Our Lady of the Lake produced a strong all-around performance Wednesday, defeating Huston–Tillotson 16–2 behind a dominant outing from starting pitcher Josh Ruiz and a balanced offensive effort that produced 14 hits.
Ruiz earned the win after pitching a complete seven innings. He allowed just three hits and two runs, only one of which was earned, while striking out eight and walking one. The right-hander threw 77 pitches, 61 for strikes, and kept Huston–Tillotson from generating consistent offensive pressure throughout the game.
At the plate, the Saints capitalized on scoring opportunities early and often. Benjamin Hovda reached base three times, scored three runs, drove in two, and added two stolen bases. Jack Kalisky finished with two hits and three runs scored, including a double that helped fuel the early offense.
Diego Zuniga led the Saints with a standout performance, going 3-for-4 with five runs batted in and two doubles. His timely hitting helped extend several innings and build the Saints lead.
Jacob Cueva also delivered a productive day, collecting two doubles and two RBIs. Brett Atkinson recorded two hits, including a double, while scoring twice and driving in one. Aiden Gonzalez added two hits and two RBIs, and Mason Ruiz contributed a double and an RBI.
Our Lady of the Lake remained aggressive on the bases as well. Hovda stole two bases, Derek Hernandez added two steals after reaching base, and Atkinson contributed another as the Saints continued to pressure the Huston–Tillotson defense.
Huston–Tillotson scored its runs on a solo home run from Jacob Perez and a sacrifice fly from Danny Hernandez. However, the Rams managed only three hits in the game and struck out eight times against Ruiz. After Huston–Tillotson starter Edgar Muniz allowed four runs in three innings, the Saints continued to add to their lead against the bullpen, including a five-run stretch during the middle innings that put the game out of reach.
The Saints will be back in action this Friday at 6:00 PM CDT to start their home stand against Texas A&M-Texarkana.