In a game heard on WEZC and online at dewittdailynews.com, Monticello won its seventh straight with a 9-3 win over Paxton-Buckley-Loda in Illini Prairie Conference high school baseball action on Thursday in Monticello. 

The Sages' win was fueled by a decisive six-run outburst in the bottom of the sixth inning.

Zeke Young doubled to right field to start the frame. Pinch-hitter Brian Wiltgen followed with a bunt single, moving Young to third. Cole Basak then walked to load the bases. 

Dawson Gaitros singled to center, scoring Basak. 

A wild pitch allowed Young to score, and a throwing error in the same at-bat brought in Wiltgen and advanced Basak to third. 

Carter Foran walked, setting the stage for Eli Craft, who delivered a three-run home run to left field, also scoring Gaitros and Foran.

Craft led the offensive charge for Monticello, going 2-for-4 with four RBIs and two doubles, including the pivotal three-run homer. Gaitros also had a strong day at the plate, going 2-for-4 with a run scored and an RBI. Foran contributed with two hits and a run scored. Ike Young had a solo home run while Zeke Young had a double and scored a run.

On the mound, Heyden Romano earned the win for Monticello, pitching six strong innings and allowing just one earned run on three hits while striking out nine.

Romano earned the ServPro of Piatt/DeWitt Counties player of the game. 

Monticello improves to 17-3 overall and 4-1 in the Illini Prairie Conference. They are off until Monday when they travel to Pontiac for more IPC action.