Monarchs shutout Wolfpack in ILH D2 tourney

Damien's Javin Cortez throws a pitch to plate against PAC-5. Cortez threw eight strikeouts in the Monarchs win. Sylvia Lee | SL

Damien came up clutch defensively to blank PAC-5, 8-0, in the Interscholastic League of Honolulu Division II double-elimination tournament Monday night at Hans L'Orange Field.

The Monarchs stranded 10 Wolfpack runners on base to advance to take on league regular season champion Saint Francis in the winners' bracket on Wednesday afternoon at Pasty T. Mink Central Oahu Regional Park.

PAC-5 moves over to the losers' bracket and will take on Hanalani, who lost to the Saints, 10-0, in an elimination contest.

Damien starting pitcher Javin Cortez led the way in the Monarchs' victory, scattering eight hits with four walks and eight strikeouts in six innings of work.

The Monarchs were able to piece together a three-run first inning and a five-run fifth inning to back up Cortez on the mound.

Leadoff hitter Akila Arecchi led Damien at the plate, going 2-for-3 with two RBIs and two runs scored. Other players with multiple RBIs include Jordan Donahue and Grayson Bueno.

PAC-5's Zane Oshiro batted 3-for-4 to lead the Wolfpack in the loss.