Portageville answers the bell, ropes Oran in big win

PORTAGEVILLE, Mo. — Putting its recent losses in the rearview mirror, Portageville delivered a 7-1 statement win over Oran at Meatte Park.

Coming off back-to-back losses for the first time since 2019, the Class 2 No. 4 Bulldogs (4-3) were ready for a heavyweight bout against the Class 1 No. 2 Eagles (1-1) on Thursday, March 21.

“It was a great response because we’ve dealt with some adversity,” said Portageville coach Tyler Trover. “It was big for us to come out and beat a quality team, who is probably a final-four favorite. It was a big pick-me-up and hopefully, a good stepping stone to get the ball rolling as we move forward."

Beau-Hunter Warren toed the rubber for Portageville, earning the gutsy win. He danced out of trouble for 5.0 innings, scattering five hits and fanning six for only one earned run. Huston Partin then sealed the deal, painting the corners for two scoreless innings.

“Our pitching was vital to our success today and it’s going to be vital to our success going forward,” Trover said. “You can’t say enough about [Warren] out there on the mound. He came out today and gave us what the doctor ordered. He pitched out of some jams and locked in as the game progressed. Partin came in and shut the door by pumping strikes and being aggressive in the zone.”

The Bulldogs found holes at the plate, particularly with two strikes. Mason Adams (2-for-4, triple, 3 RBIs) and Connor Johnson (2-for-3, RBI) led the offensive onslaught, while Aaron Dunlap delivered a key double.

“The two-strike approach was really good today,” Trover said. “We had been striking out too much. Today we were excellent with some two-strike hits, shortening up and trying to lay a barrell.”

Oran struggled on the mound with Parker Bryant taking the loss, and Kole Burger and Nolan Loper working in relief. Burger (2-for-4) and Tyler Brashears (2-for-3) provided some offensive punch for the Eagles, but it wasn't enough to match the Bulldogs' firepower.

After their recent struggles, Trover acknowledged a shift following a practice earlier this week.

"We had a personal team moment where some guys bared their hearts out,” he said. “It was emotional, and it was needed. It was good for us and it sparked a great practice.”

Portageville hosts South Pemiscot on Friday, March 22, while Oran travels to Valle Catholic (5-0) on Saturday, March 23.

__PORTAGVILLE 7, ORAN 1__

Oran 010 000 0 — 1 6 1

P’Ville 141 100 x — 7 7 0

W—Beau Hunter Warren. L—Parker Bryant. 2B—Portageville: Aaron Dunlap. 3B—Portageville: Mason Adams.