Ike Young's three-run home run in the fourth proved to be the difference, and Monticello shut out Mt. Pulaski 3-0 in a non-conference high school baseball tune-up ahead of postseason play later this week from Monticello.

Young's home run backed three scoreless innings from Gatsby Grant, and three pitchers combined to close out the victory for the Sages.

Monticello managed just three hits. Dawson Gaitros and Eli Craft had the other hits.

Forest Rawdin, Matthias Rudolph and Carter Foran combined to finish out the three-hitter for the Sages.

Chance Payne, Luke Martin, and Carter Clark had the only hits for the Hilltoppers. 

Clark's only blemish on the afternoon was Young's three-run home run. He struck out three and permitted three hits. 

The Hilltoppers finish the regular season 20-6 and will take on Villa Grove on Wednesday in Tuscola. Villa Grove topped Broadlands-Heritage in Regional quarterfinal action on Monday.

Monticello improves to 26-6 to finish out the regular season and battles Tri-Valley on Wednesday in Regional semifinal action in Forsyth. Tri-Valley rallied past Clinton on Monday in Regional quarterfinal action in Downs.

Hear Wednesday's action on 95.9 FM WEZC and online at dewittdailynews.com.