The Carmi-White County Bulldogs were locked in a scoreless battle with Edwards County through five innings Thursday afternoon at Eckerle Park, but a costly sixth inning proved to be the difference in a 3-0 loss.
After both teams struggled to generate offense early, Edwards County broke through in the top of the sixth. Jackson Hensley sparked the rally with a leadoff double off the left-center field wall. Cash Conner followed with a fielder’s choice, but a misplay allowed both runners to reach safely, putting immediate pressure on the Bulldogs’ defense.
The inning unraveled from there. Dylan Prather laid down a bunt, but an errant throw sailed over the first baseman’s head, allowing two runs to score. Moments later, Dylan Roosevelt hit a ground ball that deflected off a Bulldog glove and rolled into center field, bringing home a third run.
That would be all the offense Edwards County needed.
Carmi had its chances but couldn’t capitalize, finishing 0-for-6 with runners in scoring position on the day.
Despite the tough-luck loss, Merick Millhorn delivered a strong outing on the mound, tossing a complete game, allowing just four hits over seven innings while striking out nine and issuing no walks. Of the three runs allowed, only two were earned.
With the loss, the Bulldogs fall to 3-12 overall and 0-4 in Black Diamond Conference play. Carmi will look to regroup over the weekend before returning to action Tuesday at home against Eldorado.