Joplin Outlaws Crush Sherman Shadowcats in 18-5 Rout

SHERMAN, TX — The Joplin Outlaws unleashed a relentless offensive barrage, overpowering the Sherman Shadowcats 18-5 on Sunday at Shadowcats Park. 

The Outlaws wasted no time, jumping out to a 2-0 lead in the first inning when designated hitter Anthony Mazza singled to drive in second baseman Andre Jackson II and center fielder Ravaughn Morgan.

Joplin extended their lead in the second, with Jackson II’s two-RBI double and a subsequent error by Shadowcats shortstop Erick Ballenilla pushing the score to 5-0.

The third inning saw right fielder Murchael Turner blast a two-run homer, followed by a bases-loaded single from shortstop Blake Wilson, making it 8-0.

Sherman showed signs of life in the fourth when second baseman Mason Jacob singled to score designated hitter Ryan Sessions. The Shadowcats mounted a brief rally in the fifth, with Jacob’s grand slam narrowing the gap to 8-5.

However, any hopes of a comeback were obliterated in the sixth, as Joplin erupted for 10 runs. The inning featured a three-run homer by first baseman Luke Shannon, a two-RBI single by Turner, and another two-RBI hit from Jackson II, capping the Outlaws’ scoring at 18.

Jackson II led Joplin’s attack, going 3-for-5 with four RBI and three runs scored, while Turner (2-for-4, four RBI) and Shannon (1-for-2, three RBI) provided the power. Mazza added three RBI, and Wilson scored three times, going 2-for-2 with two walks.

Joplin’s pitching, led by starter Walker Sweet (4 IP, 1 ER, 6 K), kept Sherman in check. Relievers Lucas Vanlanduit and Marcus Young closed out the game, with Young tossing a scoreless seventh. The Outlaws’ staff struck out 10 and allowed just seven hits.