VANDALIA - The Aviators clinched their 16th Sectional Crown Thursday evening, with a 15-0, run-rule win over Springfield in five innings of play.
"A good day all the way around," said Butler head coach Trent Dues after the win.
And a good one it was - as once again a large crowd of Aviator faithful got to see another dominating performance by this Butler squad.
Senior Kaden Echeman (9-0) earned the win with four strikeouts through three innings of work.
The righty was relieved by freshman Jordan Taylor, who closed out the final two innings with two strikeouts.
The duo combined for a no-hitter, backed once again by a stout Butler defense.
"Ech and Jordan combined on the no-no with only three freebies."
"We played errorless baseball, so just a great game defensively."
Offensively the Aviators scattered twelve hits and jumped on Springfield early, plating seven runs in the first inning to set the tone.
"A great way to start the tournament," said Dues. "Getting seven in the first sure helps."
Senior Bryce Echeman had a fine day at the plate, going 2-for-2 with three runs. Fellow senior Bitty Hendricks also went 2-for-2 with three RBI.
Carson Clark finished 2-for-4 with a double and Quinton Hall was 2-for-3 with two RBI.
Freshman Austin Flohre added two RBI in the win.
The Aviators will advance to the District Semi-Final on Tuesday, May 25th at Newton, where they will face MVL foe Sidney (20-8) for the third time this season.
The Aviators came away with 9-0 and 10-0 victories in the regular season match-ups. That being said, the Jackets who were winners of the Valley Division will be looking to pull the upset.