Jake Vitale collected three hits in five at bats, as Fulton Railroaders defeated Hoptown Hoppers 8-2 on Saturday. Vitale hit a home run to right field in the first inning, singled in the seventh inning, and singled in the ninth inning.

Fulton Railroaders got on the board in the first inning after Vitale homered to right field, scoring two runs.

Fulton Railroaders scored one run in the top of the second on a solo home run to left field by Dom Maldet.

Fulton Railroaders added one run in the third. Mason Cook singled, making the score 4-0.

Carson Cochran opened the game for Fulton Railroaders. They surrendered eight hits and two runs over five and one-third innings, striking out three and walking two. Dalton Sisson began the game for Hoptown Hoppers. They surrendered seven hits and five runs over four innings, striking out four and walking two. Emillo Duque threw three and two-thirds innings of shutout ball for Fulton Railroaders in relief. The reliever gave up one hit, striking out five and walking four.

Fulton Railroaders tallied 12 hits in the game. Cook and Vitale were a force together in the lineup, as they each collected three hits for Fulton Railroaders. Maldet seized on their opportunities, leading Fulton Railroaders with three runs batted in from the number seven spot in the lineup. The catcher went 2-for-5 on the day. Charlie Ferbet collected two hits for Fulton Railroaders in four at bats. Garner Anderson stole two bases. Fulton Railroaders turned one double play in the game.

Hoptown Hoppers accumulated nine hits in the game. Leadoff hitter Ethan Landis led Hoptown Hoppers with two hits in four at bats. Gavin Lake led Hoptown Hoppers with two runs batted in. The outfielder went 1-for-2 on the day. Hoptown Hoppers had patience at the plate, amassing six walks for the game. Hoptown Hoppers were sure-handed and didn't commit a single error. Max Martin made the most plays with seven.

With the win, the Railroaders advance to semifinal matchup with the Madisonville Miners beginning Monday, July 22, 2024, in Madisonville. The loss eliminates the Hoppers from postseason play and concludes their 2024 OVL season.

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