Bluffton got a strong pitching performance from Dillan Montenegro but was unable to generate any offense in a 2-0 loss at Lakewood in the first round of the Class 4A District 5 tournament Tuesday.
The Gators pushed across two runs in the first inning, and that proved to be the only scoring. Unfortunately for the Bobcats, Lakewood’s Trent Frye outdueled Montenegro, striking out nine and walking four over six scoreless innings. Bluffton managed only four hits — all singles — and left nine runners on base.
Montenegro allowed two runs and three hits over six innings with three strikeouts and one walk.
The Bobcats (8-11) will host Marlboro County in an elimination game Thursday.