VANDALIA - The Aviators season concluded Tuesday evening with a 3-0 loss to an always stout Springboro squad in the District Semi-Final.
Facing Panther's righty Luke Burroughs, the Aviators knew coming in that runs would be scarce.
Unfortunately for Butler there were none to be had.
While the junior didn't rack up strikeouts, he did throw plenty of strikes and allowed his defense to make the plays on the field. Butler was held to just four hits on the day.
In spite of solid pitching by Aviators starter Hunter Richardson, the lefty again found himself on the wrong side of a shutout. Richardson worked five innings, allowing just five hits and one earned run while striking out three.
Senior right-hander Evan Ables came on in relief to work the final two innings, allowing just two hits while striking out two. Ables capped off what has been a great senior season for the Aviators.
Senior Jayden Watkins doubled while Max Rubins, Alex Ables and Richardson each added a hit in the effort.
While the loss was a disappointing end for the Aviators, it does not take away the luster of another fine season of Butler Baseball. The legacy left by the senior class will continue to light the way as the torch has been passed.