Road Warriors get back on winning track, roll past Eagle River

WASILLA — The Alaska Road Warriors beat Eagle River 12-2 by the 10-run mercy rule Sunday at McManus Field in Wasilla.

Bryce Borngraeber pitched a complete game, striking out five and only allowing two hits to help the Road Warriors improve to 3-2. David Newman sparked the team with his defense in the first inning. After an error, Newman gunned down the runner at second.

“That got everybody off the bench and fired up. He’s been setting the tone,” head coach Myrl Thompson said.

Jacob Butcher, Russ Ruta, Josh Grissom and Damon Hammer each scored two runs. Ben Ross had two hits and played impressive defense from his spot on the infield at third base, starting two double plays behind Borngraeber.

Borngraeber gave rest to the Road Warriors relief pitchers. Much of the pitching staff threw this weekend. Grissom, Shane Andrews and Ian Stormont dominated against West on Friday.

The Road Warriors were lackluster against Dimond Saturday, losing both games in their doubleheader, yet still competed against the baseball powerhouse.

The Road Warriors continue play on Thursday against a tough Chugiak team at Oberg Field. Though the season is less than a week old, Thompson sees early leaders emerging on his team.

“Grissom, Ruta, they’re always there, always ready. Aaron Butcher has been rising up and showing leadership,” he said. “The guys are really responding to it.”

Contact Tim Rockey at 352-2252 or tim.rockey@frontiersman.com. Follow @trockeynews on Twitter.