Tiffin - Dominance came from the bottom of the order on Monday at Tornado Field, as the Columbian Tornadoes rode a massive fifth-inning surge to a 10-0 shutout victory.

The tail end of the lineup proved to be the engine for the Tornadoes' offense. Jayce Arias, Blake Gaulden, and Kyle Hepp combined for four of the team’s six hits, accounting for three runs scored and four RBIs. Hepp got the scoring started early, lining a double in the bottom of the second inning to give Columbian an initial lead they would never relinquish.

While the early innings were a narrow affair, the floodgates opened in the bottom of the fifth. Columbian exploded for eight runs in the frame, capitalizing on defensive miscues and disciplined plate appearances. The rally featured an RBI hit-by-pitch from Jamison Woessner, a bases-loaded walk by Hepp, and a ringing two-run double from Arias. Braden Egbert capped the scoring with an RBI single to finalize the double-digit lead.

Hepp was just as effective on the mound as he was at the plate. The right-hander earned the win, tossing five scoreless innings and allowing only a single hit. Despite walking three batters, Hepp kept the opposition off balance, striking out two and ensuring the shutout remained intact.

Egbert and Hepp led the hit column for the Tornadoes with two apiece, while the team’s collective patience resulted in six total walks. Arias and Hepp were particularly effective back-to-back in the lineup, with each driving in two runs.

Columbian looks to carry this momentum into a quick turnaround, as they remain at home to welcome Norwalk on Tuesday.