MONROE, CT — Make it five wins in a row for the Masuk High baseball team. The Panthers improved to 6-3 and have found a variety of ways to come out on top, following up a 1-0 win at Stratford on Wednesday with an 11-9 home win over New Fairfield the next day. Mixed in the winning ways were a 15-5 win over Kaynor Tech, 9-5 victory over Southington and 7-1 win over Brookfield.
“We’re doing it in different ways, which is a sign of a team that can be dangerous,” Masuk Coach Brian Hourigan said. “A lot of contributions throughout the lineup. It’s been fun to see.”
In the win over Stratford pitcher Justin Fanning allowed two hits over six and two-thirds innings, striking out eight and walking two.
Ryan Cubelli singled to knock in the lone run in the second inning. Cubelli went 2-for-3. Chris Welch also had two hits for Masuk.
In the win over New Fairfield, it looked like an easy one as the Panthers took a 9-1 lead into the fifth inning. The Rebels got to within 9-8. A pair of insurance runs in the sixth proved to be the difference as Masuk surrendered another run in the seventh and held on.
Jackson Zylick collected four hits in four at bats. Zylick tripled and had a trio of singles.
Welch singled to drive in two runs in the first. The Panthers extended their lead with five runs in the bottom of the second thanks to RBI singles by Connor Fulchino, Zylick, Jerson Perez, and Welch.
Fulchino earned the win. the starting pitcher surrendered one hit and one run over five innings, striking out three and walking three. Nico Convertito came on in relief to put out the fire and help Masuk close out the win.
Masuk compiled 16 hits in the game. Welch provided pop in the middle of the lineup going 3-for-4 with four RBI. Fulchino, Perez and Convertito each collected multiple hits. Masuk had four stolen bases.
Hourigan said he likes the fact the Panther bats don’t stop. Even after big innings they tack on runs.
Masuk looks to keep it going Monday, April 28, when Notre Dame Prep visits at 4 p.m.
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