Aviators Bring Thunder In 12-1 Win

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. – A strong line of storms sweeping through the Carolina Lowcountry delayed Monday’s season opener by nearly four hours, but once the skies cleared, it was the Aviators who brought the thunder.

Butler rolled to an impressive 12-1 run-rule win over North Bullitt (KY), handing the Eagles just their second loss of the season (6-2).

Senior southpaw Hunter Richardson (1-0) led the way both on the mound and at the plate. The Marshall University commit allowed no earned runs, scattered just three hits, and struck out nine.

At the plate, Richardson went a perfect 3-for-3 with two runs scored, a triple, and two RBI. Sophomore catcher Jackson Schilling added a big day of his own, going 2-for-2 with a double, one run, and three RBI.

Fellow sophomore Paxton Dwenger doubled, scored once, and drove in two. Sophomore Koby Dues and senior Mason Reckner each chipped in an RBI.

The Aviators (1-0) return to action Tuesday with a nightcap doubleheader. Butler will face Bowling Green (OH) at 6:30 p.m. and Magoffin County (KY) at 9:00 p.m. ET.