Hilltoppers Capture Regional Title, Advance to Sectional Championship -

The Mt. Pulaski Hilltoppers are regional champions.

Behind a dominant complete-game performance from Luke Martin and timely offense in the middle innings, Mt. Pulaski defeated the Heyworth Hornets 3-1 in the regional championship game on Saturday to punch its ticket to the sectional championship.

Heyworth struck first in the opening inning when Tristan Crow lined a double to center field, bringing home Jackson Law for a 1-0 lead. That would be the only run the Hornets would score all afternoon as Martin settled in and controlled the game from the circle.

The Hilltoppers finally broke through in the bottom of the fourth inning. Luke Martin scored to tie the game after Tyler Cross drew a bases-loaded walk, and moments later Aaron Volle crossed the plate on a sacrifice fly by Carter Clark to give Mt. Pulaski its first lead of the game at 2-1.

Mt. Pulaski added an important insurance run in the fifth inning when Aaron Volle singled to right field, scoring Chase Roberts and extending the advantage to 3-1.

That was more than enough support for Martin, who turned in a championship-caliber outing. The Hilltopper ace tossed a complete-game five-hitter, allowing just one run while striking out five and walking only one over seven innings.

Heyworth threatened several times, collecting five hits including doubles from Tristan Crow and Braxton Denning, but Mt. Pulaski’s defense came through when needed to keep the Hornets from mounting a comeback.

The Hilltoppers finished with four hits but made them count, taking advantage of six walks and aggressive baserunning to manufacture three runs.