Johnson stays hot as Simpson splits with Dickinson

PHOENIX, Ariz. - Simpson junior shortstop Dave Johnson continued his torrid pace at the plate, hitting two home runs as part of a 5-for-5 effort in Simpson's 19-9 victory over Dickinson in game one of Thursday's doubleheader. Dickinson won game two, 7-6.

Simpson closes play in Arizona Friday, taking on Carleton in a doubleheader beginning at 10:30 a.m. CST. One win against the Knights will give Simpson its 1,000th victory in program history. Since the prgogram began in 1895, Simpson is 999-968-9.

Led by Johnson, the Storm (5-4) posted season-highs in runs and hits (18) for the third game in a row in game one. Both of Johnson's home runs were two-run shots. He added a double and ended with five RBIs on the day.

Right fielder Colton Calvert went 3-for-5 with three RBIs and third baseman Scott Ethell drove in three runs on 2-for-5 hitting.

The Simpson offense started and finished hot, putting eight runs on the scoreboard in the first inning and six in the seventh.

Starting pitcher Kyle Hanna held the Dickinson offense in check, allowing only four runs off five hits through the first four innings. Hanna (2-1) left after the sixth inning, allowing 11 hits and six runs - all earned - while striking out two.

Ben Sciambi went 3-for-3 with two RBIs for the Red Devils (3-6). Justin Williams (0-3) took the loss on the mound.