The Okmulgee Bulldogs battled hard but fell short against the Wetumka Chieftains in a 13-9 loss on Friday, despite out-hitting their opponents nine to eight.

Okmulgee’s offense was led by Jeremiah Cobb and Jax Finch, who each collected two hits in the game. The Bulldogs showed patience at the plate, drawing nine walks, with Jax Finch, Javeion Wilson and Jordan Deere leading the team with two walks each.

Wetumka took an early lead in the second inning with key contributions from Josh Lee, who stole home, and Braedin Mason, who walked to bring in a run. Dario Sila and Creed Neese added RBIs with singles to extend the Chieftains’ lead.

By the third inning, Wetumka had built an 8-2 advantage, but Okmulgee stormed back in the fifth to tie the game. A hit-by-pitch, a single by Tayvion Harjo, a walk by Jordan Deere and singles from Jax Finch and Connor Holmes helped the Bulldogs even the score at 8-8.

However, Wetumka regained control in the bottom of the fifth when Dwayne Lowe tripled down the left field line, an error allowed another run to score, and Kylar Gordon walked before a passed ball pushed another across the plate.

Zane Jaggars earned the win for Wetumka, striking out eight while allowing nine hits and nine runs over four and two-thirds innings. Jax Finch took the loss for Okmulgee, pitching four and one-third innings while surrendering 10 runs (five earned) and striking out eight.

--- Stats

• Connor Holmes - 2 RBI, Multiple SB

• Jeremiah Cobb - 2 H, RBI

• Tayvion Harjo - 2 RBI

• Jax Finch - 2 H, RBI, Multiple SB

• Jordan Deere - 2 BB, RBI

• Javeion Wilson - 2 BB - Wetumka’s aggressive base running played a key role in the game, with the team tallying 10 stolen bases, led by Lowe, Phillip Ross, and Lee, who each stole multiple. The Chieftains also played error-free defense, with Cason Crump leading the team with 12 chances in the field.

The Bulldogs will look to bounce back in their next game, as they traveled to face Kellyville on Tuesday.