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That ended Monday in a perfect way when Garrett Grundman pitched a no-hitter in the Pioneers' 6-0 season-opening victory over Armada.

Coach Rick Patterson and his team had gone through a couple of weeks of practice - mostly indoors - then had spring break, and then had an opening BWAC game last week postponed because of weather.

"I'm happy just to play a game," said Patterson, He was happier to see that Grundman, a three-year starting hurler was in mid-season form. The 6'5" senior right-hander struck out 12 Tiger batters.

"For the first time out, he pitched really well. With that wind (gusting 30-40 mph), I didn't know what would happen. Warming up, Garrett said he felt pretty good," said Patterson.

The Pioneers also had a notable opening day performance at the plate from sophomore Cameron Barrett. The C-L lead-off hitter went 3-for-4 and scored three runs. Meanwhile, Adam Cornwell clubbed an RBI double and Zach Fabian drove in another run with a single.

Cros-Lex has two important contests this week. Today (Wednesday) they face a good CPS team in County Tournament qualifier. The Tigers are 5-2.

"They knocked us out of it last year," reminded Patterson. "We've got to have this one to go on."