Monday’s series opener against visiting Troy High saw a tightly contested pitching duel that ultimately led to a 3-1 loss. Connor Strong started on the hill, going 3 2/3 innings allowing 5 hits while striking out one and Zev Gross throwing the final 3 1/3 , giving up just 2 hits and fanning one. The Laker bats could only muster 4 hits led by Mason Ermis, finishing 2-3 with a double and driving in the only run, while Bryce Tillman-Jones and Jalen Morgan had a hit apiece. Game two is on Tuesday at home starting at 4:30.