Jackson revs up offense early in a pair of routs

While the Jackson American Legion schedule includes more than 40 games spanning over two months, if the first three games are any indication, Jackson fans could see plenty of offense this summer.

After scoring seven runs in a 7-6 win Tuesday in its season opener, Jackson put up 11 runs on the board for an 11-1 five-inning rout of Metropolis in the first game of a doubleheader Friday night at Jackson. In the nightcap, Jackson (3-0) once again routed Metropolis 12-1 in five innings.

Jackson scored six runs in the top of the first and had little trouble dispatching of a sloppy-fielding Metropolis squad in the opener.

"I like the way we've hit the ball," Jackson coach Mark Lewis said. "The last two games, in the first inning we've hit the ball well."

In its season opener, Jackson scored four runs in the first before the offense hit a lull. Jackson had similar scenario in Friday's opener, scoring just one run over the next three innings. Two of those innings ended with Jackson hitting into double plays.

"I'm looking forward to having our offense put pressure on as the game continues," Lewis said.

Jackson's offense found its groove again in plenty of time to make quick work of the opener. Jason Meystedt capped a four-run fifth inning with an RBI double to end the game.

Lead-off hitter Derrick Biri was the only Jackson hitter to pick up multiple hits with a 2-for-4 performance. Meystedt and Tyler Beussink each picked up two RBIs apiece. Jackson also benefited from three Metropolis errors.

Brandon Gendron made a strong statement in his first start. Gendron, who threw just 13 innings during the high school season, allowed three hits over five innings.

"He hasn't thrown a lot of innings in the spring," Lewis said. "Going into the game we wanted five from him. I saw some good things out of him."

The lone Metropolis run came with two outs in the top of the first. Gendron walked the No. 3 hitter, then allowed an RBI single after a stolen base. Over the next two innings, Gendron retired Metropolis in order, finishing with six strikeouts overall.

"We're hoping to build off this one and see what he can give us," Lewis said of Gendron, last year's closer. "I like him in the starters role."

In the second game, Meystedt threw the first three innings for the win. Cameron Heath threw the final two innings. Offensively, Gendron had two hits, including a three-run triple. Joel Penrod added two hits and two RBIs.

Jackson will be back in action today for a 2 p.m. doubleheader at De Soto.

"Right now I like what I see, but we have a long way to go," Lewis said. "Right now we have to keep our focus on the mental side of the game."