High school baseball: Wayne off to another strong start in 1A tourney

SPANISH FORK — Wayne High School's performance in the 1A baseball quarterfinals on Tuesday morning was an example of what's made the Badgers unbeatable the last three years.

The Badgers got contributions from everyone in their lineup in a 10-0, five-inning win over Tabiona. They smacked 13 hits, used three different pitchers and didn't commit any errors.

"Defense looked good, pitching looked great," said Wayne coach Scott Ellett. "We took good approaches at the plate. I can't ask for anything more."

Jordan Ellett got the Badgers off to a good start. He threw two hitless innings before being relieved by Lance Peterson. He also drove in Wayne's first run of the game with a first-inning double.

Ellett was pulled from the game so that the Badgers could give Peterson and Carson Bray some work on Tuesday. All three pitchers figure to play key roles for Wayne later in the week when the state tournament resumes at Utah Valley University on Friday.

"I wish I could throw more," said Jordan Ellett. "We have a good rotation. Give everybody a chance, I guess."

Peterson also threw two hitless innings, and Bray closed out the win in the fifth.

The Badgers were led by a balanced effort at the plate. Jordan Ellett had two hits and two RBIs. Dallon Chappell, Collin Anderson and Bray chipped in two hits apiece.

"I think our whole team played well," said Scott Ellett. "I don't think there any real big heroes on this team. They're all good and they all do their part."

Wayne is now just two victories away from winning its third consecutive state title. The Badgers stretched their current winning streak to 49 games, which is the third-longest in state history.

"Is that what it is?" asked Scott Ellett. "OK. I'll take that. I want 50."

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