Buford’s Clutch Hitting Lifts Scotland County Past Silex

Logan Buford drove in four runs on three hits to lead Scotland County to a 12-7 win over Silex on Monday. Buford singled in the third, sixth and seventh innings, contributing a run each time, including a two-run single in the sixth.

Silex struck first in the bottom of the opening frame, taking advantage of two walks. The first run came when Dillon Benton walked with the bases loaded.

Scotland County responded in the third inning. Buford’s single to center field brought in a run, followed by RBI contributions from Owen Brown, Kwayde Hamilton and Layne Stott through a groundout, a walk and another groundout, respectively.

The Tigers broke the game open in the sixth inning, scoring five runs on two hits. Vincent Dale drew a walk to plate a run, Buford added a two-run single, Evan Arnold walked in another, and Hamilton grounded into a fielder’s choice that allowed one more run to score.

Dale earned the win, allowing three runs on five hits over three and two-thirds innings, striking out three and walking five. Arnold threw one and one-third scoreless innings in relief, striking out three and allowing just one hit. Chase Mullen took the loss for Silex, surrendering five runs on six hits over four innings.

Scotland County finished with nine hits. Dale reached base four times via walks and stole two bases. The team collected 13 walks in total and stole five bases. Defensively, the Tigers were flawless, committing no errors. Hamilton led the team with eight defensive plays.

Silex matched Scotland County with nine hits. Mullen led the team at the plate, going 3-for-3. Joe Dameron added two hits in four at-bats, while Benton walked twice. Silex drew six walks overall and turned one double play.