Whitnall Survives Pitchers' Duel Against Crosstown Rival Greenfield

Whitnall's Josh Serio is short on experience but not on talent.

The sophomore, who boasts a 6-0 record and a 2.53 earned run average, struck out 13 batters in a 4-2 win over host Greenfield in eight innings Wednesday afternoon.

Serio threw 7 2/3 innings, surrendering seven hits and four walks wihle allowing only two runs.

"He was outstanding," Whitnall coach Brian Johnsen said. "He had command of all his pitches."

Greenfield mound counterpart Nate Rios did his best to match Whitnall's ace, striking out six and walking only one while mostly scattering 13 hits.

But in the extra frame, it all came undone for the Hustlin' Hawks.

After finally piecing together back-to-back hits in the sixth to tie the game at one, Greenfield allowed three runs in the eighth, which proved to be the difference.

Whitnall's Danny Weymier scored on a wild pitch to give the Falcons a a 2-1 lead, and Brent Sluka followed with a two-run triple.

Serio gave up one run in the eighth before Luke Mentkowski closed it for the win.

The win was the second for the Falcons (13-8, 8-4) over the Hawks (15-9, 9-4) in as many days.

In an 8-3 Whitnall win Tuesday, the Falcons scored four runs in the first inning off Greenfield starter Evan Greco, highlighted by a two-run double by Marty Ordinans, who finished with three RBIs.

Nathan Dupont pitched 6 1/3 innings for the win for the Falcons, who have defeated the Hawks 10 straight times dating back to 2008.