Tigers break out in third, beat Huskies

PLAINFIELD — Getting the first two outs wasn’t much of a problem for Naperville North.

The third one proved elusive, especially in the third inning of Plainfield North’s 9-2 regional semifinal win Wednesday at Plainfield South.

The No. 1 Tigers (30-2) scored seven runs after two outs in the third, which proved to be the difference against the No. 16 Huskies (11-20).

“We had one good inning and (Patrick Cashman) really pitched well,” Plainfield North coach John Darlington said. “I don’t think he walked a batter and made them hit his pitches to beat him. That’s what we’ve been doing all year. We found a way to put an inning together.”

Leading 2-0, Plainfield North broke it open in the third by sending 11 batters to the plate.

Two-run doubles by Caleb Kissel and Brian Evak were the big blows in the inning.

Cashman struck out 10, scattered eight hits and ran his record to 6-0 with his fifth complete game of the season.

“Our leadoff hitter, Evan (Whaley) was sick today and everybody had to step up in his absence,” Kissel said. “I just wanted to do what’s best for the team. I wanted to get on base and get in.”

Plainfield North takes No. 8 Plainfield South or No. 10 Joliet West — who play at 4:30 p.m. today — at 11 a.m. Saturday for the regional title.

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