Bulldogs Claim Fifth Victory with Doubleheader Sweep Over Lancers

OTTUMWA — A week can bring about significant change, as demonstrated by the Ottumwa baseball team. Last Friday, they faced a tough start to their season with four consecutive losses against ranked 4A teams, including West Des Moines Valley and Indianola. However, the Bulldogs turned things around with a decisive 8-0 shutout against Oskaloosa in their home opener at John Hart Stadium. Now, just one week later, they have continued their winning streak, earning two convincing victories against North Scott.

In a strong showing, Ottumwa defeated the Lancers in both games of Friday's doubleheader, winning 10-0 in the first match and 13-1 in the second. "I was really proud of the guys. We talked about putting seven innings of solid baseball together in each game. We played well enough here that it only took five solid innings," remarked Ottumwa head coach Joey Mitchell. The Bulldogs consistently applied pressure on their opponents, scoring in nearly every inning.

Jace Mitchell took the mound alongside Tucker Long, pitching a complete game for the Bulldogs and striking out 11 batters while allowing just five hits and one earned run. His performance was highlighted by a pivotal single in the first inning of game one, igniting a six-run rally. "My confidence was definitely up at the plate and on the mound," Jace said, expressing his excitement about the team's performance in one of the state's largest ballparks.

Mitchell's impressive performance was complemented by teammate Mitchell Jordan, who had a standout game, going 5-6 and contributing three RBIs while crossing home plate four times. Jordan shared his satisfaction with taking on the lead-off role, stating, "I'm happy that Coach Mitchell felt comfortable putting me there and just made the most of my opportunity."

Dawson Weller also excelled, achieving six hits across both games and bringing in five RBIs. "We're playing with a lot more confidence. We're playing better as a team and it shows," Weller noted, emphasizing the positive impact of scoring early in games.

With both pitchers delivering solid performances, coach Joey Mitchell expressed his pride in the team's collective effort. "Both pitchers threw extremely well. Having both go the distance on the mound is awesome," he said. As Ottumwa improves their record to 5-4, they look ahead to crucial Iowa Alliance south doubleheaders, beginning with a trip to Des Moines Lincoln on Monday and a home game against Des Moines Roosevelt on Wednesday at 5 p.m.