Escanaba High School’s baseball team had a thrilling victory over Manistique on Monday, with sophomore Ashton Rymkos hitting his first career varsity home run to secure an 8-3 lead for the Eskymos. The hit, which initially appeared to hit the left field wall, actually made contact with a cell tower beyond the fence, dropping straight down for a surprising homer.
Rymkos’ clutch hit was a game-changer for Escanaba, who also saw standout performances from shortstop Ben Johnson. Johnson made three incredible defensive plays, including a game-ending catch and throw to first base to secure the win.
Head coach Scott Hanson praised Rymkos for his key hit, emphasizing the importance of timely hits to pull away from opponents. Johnson, who also had a stellar offensive performance going 3-for-4 with two doubles and three RBI, credited his success to improved hand-eye coordination and mobility.
Pitchers Nick Chiu and Brody Ison also played crucial roles in the victory, with Chiu earning the win after a strong relief performance and Ison settling in after a tough first inning.
The Eskymos’ 9-3 win over Manistique was a much-needed morale boost after a challenging weekend, with players like Eli Gardner contributing to the offensive effort as well. Escanaba’s strong performance on both offense and defense showcased their potential for success as they continue their season.