Delavan’s Bats Stayed Hot and the Panthers Never Let Up
The Delavan Varsity Panthers rolled to a commanding 14–2 victory over Peoria Heights on Friday, May 1, showcasing disciplined at‑bats, aggressive baserunning and another strong outing from their pitching staff. From the opening frame, Delavan dictated the pace and never allowed the Patriots to settle in.
The Panthers struck first in the top of the first when Grady Burrell worked a bases‑loaded walk to bring home the game’s opening run. Delavan kept the pressure on in the second, where Cameron McMullen delivered a key RBI single to stretch the lead to 4–0.
The breakthrough came in the fourth inning, when Delavan erupted for six runs on five hits. McMullen singled in another run, Hudson Briggs ripped an RBI double, Corie Green forced in a run with a walk and Lyndon Miller added an RBI single. Two additional runs crossed on a dropped third strike, pushing the Panthers’ lead to double digits and effectively putting the game out of reach.
On the mound, Green was steady and composed. The right‑hander earned the win with five innings of work, allowing just three hits and two runs—only one earned—while striking out eight. His command and poise set the tone for a defense that played flawlessly behind him, committing no errors.
Briggs powered the offense with three RBIs and a 2‑for‑3 performance, while McMullen matched him with two hits of his own. Delavan’s patience at the plate paid off all night, as the Panthers drew nine walks. Burrell, Green and Mason Zeigler each reached twice on free passes, and Burrell added four stolen bases to fuel Delavan’s seven‑steal night.
Corbin Soldal anchored the defense with eight plays in the field, helping secure a clean, confident win.
The Panthers now turn their attention to Tuesday’s matchup against Tremont as they attempt to build momentum this spring.