The Pike Liberal Arts Patriots baseball team defended their home field Monday afternoon in an 8-2 victory over region rival Hooper Academy.

Justin McLaughlin led the Patriots (2-0, 1-0 AISA Class 3A, Region 1) on the mound with six strong innings of work. McLaughlin allowed one hit, struck out nine batters and walked three for the win.

Bradley Floyd led the charge at the plate, going 2-for-2 with one run scored and one RBI. McLaughlin added one hit and two RBIs to his performance on the mound.

Sam Carroll and Logan Stewart also had RBI hits.

Next up for the Patriots is another home region game Wednesday. The Patriots square off with the Macon-East Knights beginning at 3:30 p.m.