Orioles erupt for 17 runs in season-opening win over Parker

The Lennox High School baseball team opened its 2026 season in dominant fashion Sunday, March 29, overpowering Parker 17-2 in a three-inning game shortened by the run rule.

After surrendering an early run in the top of the first inning, Lennox answered immediately with a seven-run bottom half to take control.

The Orioles capitalized on patient hitting, aggressive baserunning and Parker miscues to quickly swing momentum. Jaxson Bittner and Talen Eich each reached base on walks before Cole Spieler delivered an RBI single. Lennox continued to pressure Parker with stolen bases and timely hits, including a two-run single by Justin Butler that pushed the lead to 5-1. Additional runs scored on a sacrifice fly by Cade Aasheim and a wild pitch to give Lennox a 7-1 advantage after one inning.

Lennox added eight more runs in the second inning to break the game open.

Spieler opened the frame with a single, and the Orioles again took advantage of defensive errors and free passes. Butler, Logan VonHaden and Aasheim each contributed offensively during the rally, while multiple Parker errors allowed Lennox to extend its lead to 15-1 by inning’s end.

On the mound, Spieler settled in after the opening inning and struck out seven batters over two innings of work while allowing just one run. He retired six consecutive hitters during one stretch and did not allow a hit after the first inning.

Bittner took over pitching duties in the third inning, recording three strikeouts while allowing one run.

Lennox added two more runs in the bottom of the third to trigger the run rule. Bittner tripled and scored, while Madix Oltmanns later drove in Eich with a single to end the contest at 17-2.

The Orioles finished with contributions throughout the lineup. Spieler went two of three at the plate and had one RBI, while Butler, VonHaden, Bittner, Eich, Preston Otte, and Oltmanns each drove in runs. Lennox also used aggressive baserunning to consistently create scoring opportunities throughout the game. 

The Orioles were scheduled to host Tri-County on Tuesday, March 31.