Unicorns Power Past Hoppers, 12-5
June 11th, 2026
UTICA, Mich. – The Eastside Diamond Hoppers (1-11) mounted a late rally, but the Utica Unicorns (7-5) built an early lead and held on for a 12-5 victory Thursday night at UWM Field.
The Unicorns wasted little time getting on the scoreboard, plating four runs in the first inning and adding two more in the second. They continued their offensive surge with a four-run third inning to take a commanding 10-0 lead.
Rafael Jackson III led the Unicorns’ offense with a monster performance, going 3-for-4 with two home runs, a double, four RBIs, and three runs scored. Jason Givens also delivered a pair of home runs and drove in four runs as the Beavers collected 14 hits on the night.
The Hoppers finally broke through in the seventh inning, scoring all five of their runs in the frame. Josh Burke provided the biggest swing of the night for Eastside, launching a grand slam to cap the rally and finish with four RBIs. Eli Watson added two hits, including a double, while David Kedrow collected a pair of singles.
Unicorns starter Coley Kilpatrick earned the win after tossing five scoreless innings, allowing four hits while striking out eight. Hoppers starter D. Walker was charged with the loss after allowing 10 runs over three innings.
Despite the defeat, the Hoppers finished with eight hits and drew five walks, while the Unicorns’ powerful lineup produced four home runs and 12 runs in the victory.