Wheeler Athletics

A walk-off left Wheeler Varsity Bearcats on the wrong end of an 8-7 defeat to Merrillville on Thursday. The game was tied at seven in the bottom of the seventh when A Ford doubled, scoring one run. Merrillville rallied for the victory despite trailing 6-0 in the first. Wheeler Varsity Bearcats jumped out to the lead in the top of the first inning after David Lindlow grounded out, scoring one run, Caleb McLaughlin singled, scoring two runs, Jack Gaetz singled, scoring two runs, and Nick Micciche singled, scoring one run. Merrillville captured the lead, 8-7, in the bottom of the seventh after K Henry doubled down the right field line, Wheeler Varsity Bearcats committed an error, and Ford doubled down the left field line, each scoring one run. Keegan Kuehl stepped on the bump first for Wheeler Varsity Bearcats. The starter surrendered six hits and five runs over three innings, striking out six and walking three. I Aguaya led things off on the hill for Merrillville. The starter surrendered six hits and seven runs (five earned) over six innings, striking out 10 and walking four. Gaetz, the number eight hitter for Wheeler Varsity Bearcats, led the way with two runs batted in. The outfielder went 1-for-2 on the day. Nick Bravo and Christian Cutka each collected two hits for Wheeler Varsity Bearcats. Merrillville collected nine hits in the game. Henry and J Wood each collected two hits for Merrillville. D Wiggins led Merrillville with two runs batted in. The center fielder went 1-for-4 on the day. Henry stole two bases. Merrillville stole six bases in the game. Wheeler Varsity Bearcats play at home on Friday against Whiting in their next game.