SOUTH JORDAN — The Bingham Miners were able to score eight runs in the first two innings, and cruise to the 10-0 shutout victory over Alta in the 5A state softball tournament.
Bingham pitcher Tori Almond struck out 10 Hawks batters and only gave up two hits, but the action came from the Bingham batters — who were red hot from start to finish.
"Tori brings a lot of confidence to the defense," said Bingham coach Mikki Jackson. "She can take control of any game whenever she wants."
Chalese Fankhauser started the Miner's batting order with a single, and was able to make it to third base after stealing second. Rachel Mike picked up an RBI after smacking a single, and Almond was also able to pick up an RBI after her bunt rolled perfectly to prevent the Hawks from defending.
Lauren Johanson stepped up to the plate next and slugged a double into centerfield, scoring Jaden Mortensen to give the Miners a 3-0 lead.
Bingham had six hits in the first inning, including two bunts that were able to score runners, and took a 5-0 lead.
In the second inning, Almond struckout two batters and gave up a double but the Miners were able to keep the bats going and stay up on the Hawks. Jaden Mortenson slugged a triple that scored two runs, and after an Alta error, was able to come across home plate to give the Miners the 8-0 advantage.
In the fourth inning, Whitney Lewis got things started with a double and Mortensen was able to get a hit to place runners on first and second bases... Both Lewis and Mortensen were able to steal bases and advance into scoring position. Johanson stepped up to the plate, and connected for her second double on the day and also scored both base runners to give Bingham a 10-0 lead.
"I wanted that hit really bad," said Johanson. "I was so focused in the game, so I didn't realize we took a 10-0 lead after that."
The senior finished 2-for-3 with three RBIs and two doubles.
Alta had one last chance to erase the shutout, but Almond was able to strikeout the last three batters and give the Miners the win. The Hawks were only able to get through their batting order once completely through.
"When it comes to state, every win helps with momentum," said coach Jackson. "This game really showed our consistency, and were really motivated to get out here and play softball."
e-mail: cjohnson@desnews.com