HUSKIES: O’Neal, Caracciola get 3 hits each

dogs in position to chip into the Huskies lead. Michael received a strike call on a full-count pitch that upset Gridley’s fan base and coaching staff for the second out.

The Bulldogs proceeded to score two runs on a passed ball and RBI single. Further harm in the inning was averted when O’Neal made an exceptional behind-the-shoulder grab in right field to end the inning.

“I just tried to fix what was wrong with my mechanics,” said Michael about third inning. “I was thinking about one pitch at a time, that is the only way to get out of jams like that.”

Michael settled down through the next two innings, holding the Bulldogs 0 for 6 with a walk.

O’Neal’s second extra base hit of the game started the Huskies’ fifth inning. RBI singles by Michael Boomgaarden and Dante Caracciola put the Huskies up 11-2 with one out.

Eager to clinch the series, pinchhitter Jack Keeley doubled off the center field wall to score Zack Bryan to enact the mercy rule.

O’Neal was a perfect 3 for 3 at the plate with a pair of doubles and RBI. Caracciola was 3 for 4 with a RBI. McDaniel was 2 for 2 with a RBI, Michael Boomgaarden was 2 for 3 with a double and RBI, Enos was 2 for 3 with a RBI.

Over the past 10 days, the Huskies beat the Bulldogs four times, twice in Butte View League play. The Huskies offense outscored the Bulldogs 37-10 in the four games.

In Friday’s opener, a three-run homer by Michael Boomgaarden in the fourth inning gave the Huskies a 5-1 lead. Gridley sent out left-handed pitcher Lance Santerre who collected 10 strikeouts and issued one walk.

The Huskies’ McDaniel scattered five hits and gave up three runs in the complete-game win.