A 10-run explosion in the third inning broke open a close game and sent Bell County to a 12-2 five-inning win Monday over visiting Harlan County in the district opener for both teams.

Three-sport standout Blake Burnett, who was off to a slow start this season on the mound, bounced back with his best game of the year. Burnett scattered five hits while striking out eight and walking one.

“We came ready to play tonight, and we played well in all four facets of the game,” Bell County coach Jeff Sziksai said. “Blake had a nice game. He only had one walk and really attacked the strike zone, so pitching was really good. I thought we had some really good at-bats; a good approach and didn’t strike out at all. We played sound, defensively, and ran the bases well, We played well tonight. It was good to see. Now we need to get ready to go and try to do it again tomorrow.”

Ty Mays led Bell’s 10-hit attack with a double and single each. Holden Clark singled twice. Cooper Brock, Ayden Smith and Mason Sziksai added doubles. Alex Creech, Blake Burnett and Dalton Black had singles for the 5-5 Bobcats.

Zayden Casolari led the 6-7 Bears on offense with his first homer. DaShaun Smith, Brennan Blevins, Kayden Adams and Brayden Morris added singles.

Casolari suffered the loss as he allowed 10 runs (nine earned) on eight hits with one walk in 2 1/3 innings. Aiden Lewis gave up one unearned run on one hit in two-thirds of an inning. Byron Shepherd pitched one inning, giving up one unearned run on one hit.

The two teams meet again Tuesday at Harlan County.

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Harlan County 000 11 — 2.  5.  2

Bell County 10(10)1X — 12 10 0

Casolari, Lewis (3), Shepherd (4) and Smith; Burnett and Creech. WP — Burnett. LP — Casolari (3-3). HR — Casolari (1).