The Benton Central Varsity Bison put together a strong weekend on the diamond, splitting a two-game series with Rensselaer Central, highlighted by a dominant offensive performance on Friday. Friday (April 10): Benton Central 16, Rensselaer Central 0 The Bison erupted for a 16-0 shutout victory, powered by an explosive sixth inning and a standout performance from Nolan Winkler. Winkler drove in four runs on two hits, contributing a pair of sacrifice flies and a two-run single. Benton Central broke the game open with an incredible 11-run sixth inning, capitalizing on timely hitting, patience at the plate, and Rensselaer miscues. Key contributors during the inning included Spencer Flook, Grant Weise, Kamron Rider, Jayce Bowman, and Rocky Ellis, all driving in runs as the Bison lineup batted around. The offense totaled 11 hits and 10 walks, with Weise and Winkler each collecting two hits, while Maclynn Elliott showed great discipline with four walks. On the mound, Parker Sexton earned the win, throwing four shutout innings while allowing just two hits and striking out six. Kamron Rider added two innings of scoreless relief to secure the shutout. Saturday (April 11): Rensselaer Central 3, Benton Central 1 (8 innings) Saturday’s contest told a much different story, as the Bison fell 3-1 in extra innings despite out-hitting Rensselaer Central 7-3. Parker Sexton and Spencer Flook again led the offense with two hits each, continuing their strong weekend at the plate. Nolan Winkler delivered the Bison’s lone RBI with a clutch double to tie the game at 1-1 in the third inning. Mason Schutter turned in a dominant pitching performance, striking out 11 batters over seven innings, allowing just one hit and one run. However, Rensselaer Central broke the tie in the eighth inning to secure the win. Weekend Takeaway The Bison showcased both their offensive firepower and pitching depth over the weekend, combining for 17 runs on 18 hits across the two games. The series highlighted Benton Central’s ability to compete in multiple ways—exploding offensively one day and battling in a tight, low-scoring contest the next. Benton Central will look to build on the weekend as they return to action on Monday against Clinton Prairie.