It took just three innings for Independence to rejoin the win column after a two-game losing streak.
Facing Greenville on the road in the final game before Spring Break, the Wildcats picked up a 16-0 run-rule victory, improving to 4-4 on the season.
Independence put up six runs in the top of the first inning, sparked by a leadoff single from Kaleb Kitchen. After Miller Owens reached base on a hit-by-pitch, Eli Stepp doubled to right field, driving in both base runners.
D.J. Mitchell followed with an RBI-single to center field, stretching the Wildcats’ lead to 3-0. A passed ball and two bases loaded walks brought in three additional runs, giving Independence the early 6-0 advantage.
With the Hornets unable to do anything in the bottom of the first, IHS went right back to work in the top of the second inning, as a bases loaded walk and a wild pitch extended the score to 8-0.
Independence closed out the game with a six-run frame in the top of the third, with Stepp scoring on a sacrifice fly from Merritt Owens. Braylon Davis’s two-out double to left field tacked on the 10th run of the game for the Wildcats, and a slew of defensive miscues set up the rest of the scoring.
Independence picked up eight hits in the win, led by a 3-for-4 effort from Mitchell, which included a double and four RBIs. On the mound, Dallas Stepp struck out seven batters and picked up the win in three shutout innings.
IHS will spend Spring Break in Biloxi, competing in the Battle at the Beach. The Wildcats’ first game is scheduled for Monday at 6 P.M. against Central Hinds Academy, with two games on deck for Tuesday against Pelahatchie and West Point.
Independence is scheduled to close out the tournament against Tupelo Christian Prep on Wednesday at 2:30 P.M.
