Even as it wades through the busiest stretch of the season, the Austin baseball team continues to beat up on the lesser lights of the Big Nine Conference. The Packers triumphed for their fourth straight time Monday, taking out host Faribault by the score of 7-2.

"Our pitchers are throwing strikes, our defense is making plays, and we're starting to get the bat on the ball better," said AHS head coach Troy Watkins, "which is a good combination to have at this point in the season."

Like they did in their opener Sunday against Albert Lea, the Packers battered their opponents early and often, putting up seven runs before Faribault was able to get on the board. While they outhit Austin 10-9, the Falcons could manage only two runs on the afternoon.

Despite allowing those 10 hits in his five innings of work, Packer starter Andy Swank earned his third win of the season by giving up only two unearned runs, striking out seven and walking none. Nate Johnson threw two perfect innings in his second relief appearance in as many games.

Sean Selmecki was 3-for-4 with an RBI to lead the Packer offensive assault. Kyle Rizzi also continues to swing the bat well after going 2-4 and driving in two runs. Johnson was 2-4 with two runs scored from the leadoff slot.

Austin improves to 6-3 in the Big Nine and 6-4 overall. Faribault travels to Marcusen Park today to complete the two-game set.

Line Score:

Austin2022100--791

Faribault0000200--2103

WP--Swank (3-1). LP--Lund.