Louisa Lions Baseball Blog

    After a pitching duel between Juniors Ethan Snyder and Andrew Ward, the Lions fell short to Fluvanna in eight hard-fought innings. Both pitchers allowed a combined four runs, but the Lions were unable to continue their momentum into extra innings. 

    Ward started off strong in the top of the first allowing just one baserunner on a walk. Fluvanna’s offense jumped to an early 2-0 lead after singles from Ryan Groome, Kevin Ward, and Andrew Ward. Snyder was able to bounce back and record three solid outs to end the inning. 

    The Lions got back a run in the top of the second after a leadoff single from Michael Barber followed by a walk from Travis Pleasants. Jack McDonald reached on an error and the Lions were behind 2-1. 

    Fluvanna recorded a baserunner in the bottom of the second, but Louisa’s defense was able to get three quick outs. The next two and a half innings were dominated by Snyder and Ward, each pitcher recording their own 1-2-3 inning. The Lions tied the game in the top of the fifth inning after Owen Agee singled to start a rally. With two outs, Garrett Duerson scored Agee on a single to right field, tying the game at 2-2. 

    Fluvanna loaded the bases in the bottom of the sixth on a triple and two walks. Snyder was able to get out of the jam without allowing a run, recording his sixth strikeout of the night. After hitting the leadoff batter in the bottom of the seventh inning, Snyder’s night was finished. Senior, Owen Agee came in for the Lions allowing two walks in his first inning. 

    Duerson recorded his second hit of the night in the top of the eighth, but it wasn’t enough to score a run for the Lions. Agee allowed a one-out walk to Kyle Algieri in the bottom of the eighth. AJ Brown drove in the winning run with a single to center field to secure the win for the Flucos. 

The Lions finished the night with just four hits, two of those coming from Duerson. Ward struck out nine batters in his eight innings, allowing just two walks. Snyder finished the game with six strikeouts and four walks. The Lions finished the regular season with a record of 4-11 and are scheduled to start the postseason on May 20 at home. Let’s Go Lions!

After an eleven game losing streak, the Lions pulled off a tremendous win against the Monticello Mustangs Tuesday night. Garrett Duerson pitched seven strong innings for the Lions, allowing six hits and four walks. Sam Lewis took the mound for the Mustangs.
    
    Duerson started the game off strong with three quick outs in the top of the first. The Lions jumped to an early lead in the bottom half of the first. J.B Lamb started the inning with a single followed by a walk to Zion Villines. Both runners scored on a throwing error from the pitcher, giving the Lions a 2-0 lead. Duerson followed with a double and was brought in on a single from Logan Fifer. Michael Weakley recorded his first career hit on a single to right field. The Lions scored six runs in the bottom of the first after batting through the lineup. 

    Duerson allowed his first walk and hit in the top of the second inning, but was able to record three outs to keep the Lions’ lead at 6-0. Weakley led off the bottom of the fourth inning with a double to center field, his second hit of the night. “It feels really good,” said Weakley. “It’s senior year. It’s important to get into playoffs and keep the run going.” After back-to-back walks to load the bases, Weakley scored on a dropped third strike giving the Lions a 7-0 lead in the fourth. 

    Monticello gained a run in the top of the fifth on a sacrifice fly from Grayson Bush. The Mustangs scored two more runs in the top of the sixth inning after back-to-back singles loaded the bases. 

    Duerson was able to record three quick outs in the top of the seventh inning securing the win for the Lions by a score of 7-3. The Lions’ offense collected seven hits on the night and the win pushes Louisa Baseball into the postseason. The Lions improve to 3-9 on the regular season and hope to add another win to their record on Thursday against Orange County. “You’ve got to always think you can win,” said Weakley. “But you never know.”

The Lions are celebrating senior night next Tuesday at the Bradford-Pelot Field at Louisa County High School and will play their last regular season game on May 16th at Fluvanna County. Let’s Go Lions!

The Lions were no match for the Western Albemarle Warriors’ hot offense Tuesday night. The Warriors collected 10 hits on the night, two of those hits home runs. Zachary Mallia took the mound for the Warriors while Garrett Duerson got the start for the Lions.

Mallia got off to a strong start in the top of the first inning facing the minimum number of batters. After a double play to start the bottom of the first, Mallia gave the Warriors a 1-0 lead on a deep home run to center field.Logan Fifer recorded his first hit of the night with a leadoff single to center field in the top of the second. Fifer was caught stealing second, keeping the Lions behind the Warriors.  

The Warriors knocked back-to-back two-out singles in the bottom of the second, but Duerson was able to record the third out and end the Warriors’ threat. Travis Pleasants drove a one-out single to center field to start the third inning, but the Lions failed to bring in a run. Wyatt Hull started the bottom of the third with a single, but was picked off on a tremendous diving tag from Michael Barber. 

Fifer knocked his second hit of the game with a double to center field in the top of the fourth. The Lions recorded three outs and the inning was over. Duerson struggled in the bottom of the fourth inning giving up a leadoff double to Trevor Vernon. Landon Abrahamson followed with a homer to left field giving the Warriors a 3-0 lead over the Lions. Western recorded 5 hits in the inning taking a 7-0 lead over the Lions in the fourth.

Owen Agee drew a leadoff walk in the top of the fifth inning, scoring on a sacrifice fly from Pleasants, cutting the Warriors lead to 7-1. After a walk and error, Garrett Duerson knocked a two run triple to right field, giving the Lions their third run. 

Agee came in to pitch for the Lions in the bottom of the fifth allowing just one run and one hit. The Lions fell to Western Albemarle by a final score of 3-8 and fall 2-8 on the regular season with the loss. Duerson finished the night with 9 hits and seven earned runs. The Lions collected four hits on the night, but struck out a total of eight times. The Lions are set to face Powhatan on Thursday night, hoping to redeem themselves from their last outing. Let’s Go Lions!

The Lions fought a hard game but struggled offensively in their 2-0 loss against Fluvanna Tuesday night. Junior, Kevin Ward took the mound for the Flucos while Garrett Duerson got the call for the Lions. 
    
    The Flucos jumped to an early start in the top of the first with a leadoff single from Ryan Groome. Duerson was able to record three quick outs to end the top half of the inning. Ward recorded his first two strikeouts in the bottom of the first keeping the game at 0-0. 

    A pitchers duel took place until the top of the third inning. Duerson allowed back-to-back singles and a walk to load the bases. Ward flew out to left field, scoring the runner from third to give Fluvanna a 1-0 lead over Louisa. 
    
    Fluvanna scored their second run in the top of the fifth inning on an RBI double from Ward, his second RBI of the night. Duerson pitched seven strong innings, but Fluvanna dominated the bats collecting seven hits on the night. Duerson allowed just three walks on the day throwing four strikeouts. 
    
Ward threw a complete game shutout allowing one hit, no walks, and twelve strikeouts. The Lions fall 2-6 on the regular season and are set to play Albemarle on Thursday night. Let’s Go Lions!

The Lions showed tremendous effort in their third game against the Franklin County Eagles. Unfortunately for the Lions, late-inning walks have dominated the pitching rotation for the past few games. The Lions outhit the Eagles on Wednesday but failed to get their first win of the tournament. Jacob Moureau got the call for the Eagles while Ethan Snyder took the mound for his second start of the tournament.
    
Louisa’s offense came out strong in the top of the first with back-to-back singles. With bases loaded, Logan Fifer nailed an RBI single towards the left side to score Travis Pleasants. The bases were left stranded. Snyder gave up a leadoff walk in the bottom of the second to Dawson Cooper. After stealing two bases, Cooper was in scoring position and was brought in to tie the game by an RBI single from Cameron Mullins.

Junior, Braiden Byers knocked his first hit of the season on a line drive single to the left fielder in the top of the second. Byers was put into scoring position, but the Lions failed to bring him home. A walk in the bottom of the third would prove costly for the Lions, bringing in the go-ahead run for the Eagles.

Jack McDonald collected his second hit of the night in the top of the third inning. Fifer’s hot bat came in clutch again driving in two runs to put the Lions ahead 3-2. Snyder gave up a walk and a hit by pitch in the bottom of the third to start the inning. Mullins drove a deep fly ball over the left field fence to put the Eagles up 5-3.

The Lions scored their fourth run in the top of the sixth inning after an RBI single from McDonald, his third hit of the night. Owen Agee came into pitch for the Lions, giving up three singles and two walks in his third inning of pitching in the game. The Eagles scored five runs putting them ahead 10-4.

The Lions weren’t able to bounce back in the top of the seventh inning and fell to the Eagles 10-4. Louisa outhit Franklin, but seven walks killed the pitching rotation. McDonald had an impressive night at the plate going 3-4 with three singles. Fifer also went 2-3 with three RBI’s. Snyder finished the game with five strikeouts and three hits.

The Lions are back in action against Myrtle Beach High School on Thursday for their last game of the tournament. Let’s Go Lions!

With sunburned faces, the Lions fell short in their first game in Myrtle Beach to the Haymarket Bobcats from Virginia. Ethan Snyder got the first start of the tournament for the Lions while Harris took the mound for the Bobcats. 

    The Lions started an early 2 out rally in the top half of the first. Jack McDonald started the threat with a walk followed by an RBI single from Garrett Duerson. A single and a walk would load the bases for the Lions. Duerson scored on a passed ball and a walk would bring the third run in for Louisa. The Bobcats tried to start a rally of their own in the bottom of the first, but Snyder was able to record three quick outs to leave one runner on. 

    Vollmer came in for relief in the top of the second inning. McDonald recorded his first hit of the day, but the Lions couldn’t start another rally. The Bobcats came back in the bottom of the third with a rally of their own. After two walks and an RBI flyout, Michael Weakley replaced Snyder who finished his day with two walks and three strikeouts. Weakley got out of the jam not allowing a run. 

    Evan Cash came into the game in the bottom of the fourth giving up back-to-back-to-back singles. He finished the night with two earned runs and no walks. Owen Agee and Michael Barber both pitched an inning for the Lions, giving up a total of two earned runs. 

The Lions struggled defensively throughout the game and struggled to get a hit in the last few innings falling to the Bobcats 11-3. The Bobcats collected 12 hits on the day and the Lions accounted for four errors. The Lions are set to face St. Albans High School from West Virginia on Tuesday at 3:45. Let’s Go Lions!

The Lions struggled both defensively and offensively on Tuesday night against Powhatan, playing just five innings. Virginia Tech commit Brandon Eike dominated the mound for the Indians, pitching five strong innings only allowing two hits on the night. Ethan Snyder got the ball for the Lions, throwing 2.1 innings allowing 3 hits and 3 earned runs. 

Eike started the game with three strikeouts in the top of the first inning. Snyder allowed two walks in the bottom of the first inning and the Indians scored their first run of the night on a passed ball. Senior, Garrett Duerson led off the top of the second inning with a single followed by a fly out from Michael Barber for the first out. Zion Villines recorded the second out of the inning on a hard hit ball to the right fielder. Garrett Duerson failed to tag up on the play and the inning was over. The first three batters for the Indians in the bottom of the second made it on base after two singles and an error. Snyder gave up a walk to Caleb Kersey bringing in the second run for the Indians. Tymothy Hart struck out swinging for the first out of the inning, but an error from first baseman Michael Weakley would allow three more runs to score giving the Indians a 5-0 lead over the Lions. Snyder would then record two more strikeouts to end the Indians’ threat.

The Lions started the top of the third with two walks, but Eike would record three quick outs to end the inning. With one out and the bases loaded in the bottom of the third, Kersey singled to left field scoring two more runs for the Indians. The Indians scored seven runs in the bottom of the third after three walks and a series of walks and errors. “There are ups and downs to it,” said Snyder. “It hurts when you’re right there. It was a couple of defensive mistakes. We couldn’t hit that first pitcher.” Offensively, the Lions struggled to hit the ball, allowing only five base runners on the night, only two of those off of hits. Brandon Eike threw 5 solid innings, striking out 8 Lions and allowing just two hits.

“We didn’t do three phases of the game very well again,” said Fisher. “We didn’t pitch well, we didn’t play good defense. We’ve got to play better.” The Lions are set to face Monticello on Thursday night, hoping to secure a win. “We know we’re not this bad,” said Fisher. “But we’re playing like we’re this bad right now.” The Lions are hoping to turn the season around while playing in a tournament at Myrtle Beach during spring break. Let’s go Lions.

On a cold, breezy March night, the Lions traveled to Albemarle to secure their second win of the season. After coming off of a tremendous comeback win against Orange, the Lions are looking to continue grinding and pushing for the remainder of the season. Aiden McClune got the start for the Patriots while Ethan Snyder took the mound for the Lions.
The Lions got off to an early start with bases loaded in the top of the first. Garrett Duerson nailed a two-run double to right field to give Louisa a 2-0 lead. With two strikes, junior, Bryce Clarke followed with a three-run home run to left field. “It felt really good," said Clarke. "I knew the bigger the lead, the better it would be for our team." Larry Labarge followed with the second double of the inning giving the Lions a 6-0 lead in the first inning. Snyder would give up three hits and a walk in the bottom of the first inning, but the Patriots failed to score a run.
The Patriots only allowed one base runner in the top of the second after an error from the third baseman, Jack Bruns; however, the Patriots started their own rally in the bottom of the second. Snyder gave up a walk and a single to begin the second inning. After a fly out and a balk, the Patriots scored two runs, but Snyder would strikeout Thomas Fischer to end the inning, the Lions holding onto a 6-2 lead.
The Lions failed to score another run in the top of the third inning, but the Patriots would score another run in the bottom half of the inning, cutting the Lion’s lead in half. The Lions would come back in the top of the fourth, scoring two runs on three hits and three fielder’s choices.
Snyder threw his first 1-2-3 inning in the top of the fourth, giving the Lions momentum to finish the game. The Lions put their first four batters on base in the top of the fifth, adding two more runs to their score. After a series of walks and errors, the Lions finished the inning with a total of five runs giving Louisa a 13-3 lead over Albemarle. Snyder would continue pitching into the bottom of the fifth needing just three outs to secure the win.
Snyder allowed a two out single to Jett Shue in the bottom of the fifth, but a fly ball to Travis Pleasants would end the inning and the game. The Lions finished the night with three doubles, two of those from junior, Larry Labarge. Snyder only allowed two walks on the night, five strikeouts, and just two extra base hits, earning his first win of the season. Albemarle struggled defensively, using four pitchers throughout the night and committing four errors. This struggle is not what brought the Lions the win. The determination and momentum from the dugout pushed the team through the game. “We can't sleep on anybody," said McDonald. "Anything can happen. You've got to have confidence in yourself.” The Lions are set to face Western Albemarle on Thursday night and we wish them luck! Let’s Go Lions!

 After a two-inning rally Thursday night, the Lions were looking to keep the momentum going on Friday. The Lions fought a tough battle on Friday night against the Charlottesville Black Knights but lost by a score of 8-4. Dalton Richardson would get the call for the Black Knights while Michael Barber took the mound for the Lions. 

Richardson began the first inning by striking out the side on 17 pitches; holding the Lions hitless until the top of the third inning. Barber would give up a single in the bottom of the first but would record a strikeout to get the first out. Richardson then lined out into a double play to end the inning for the Black Knights. 

Barber would give up two singles and a walk to start the bottom of the second; however, courtesy runner Tyler Williams was picked off by the catcher, Jack McDonald, for the first out of the inning. After a hit by pitch, the bases were loaded, but a strikeout would end the threat from the Black Knights. Senior, Owen Agee would begin the Louisa rally in the top of the third inning, drawing a walk and reaching second on a throwing error from Richardson. J.B Lamb followed with a double to left field, scoring Agee. 

Charlottesville followed with a rally of their own, drawing back-to-back walks. Marcus Targonski drove a 2 RBI line drive into center field, taking over the lead for the Black Knights. Charlottesville would go on to record two more runs in the inning, giving them a 4-1 lead over the Lions. Louisa would cut the lead in half after an RBI single from junior, Bryce Clarke in the top of the fourth. 

Evan Cash would first take the mound for the Lions in the bottom of the fourth allowing one walk. Cash then threw a 1-2-3 bottom of the fifth to hold off the Black Knights. The Lions scored another run in the top of the sixth inning on an error from the second baseman Kason Thomas. 
    
Charlottesville started an even bigger rally of their own in the bottom of the sixth scoring four runs. With a 7-3 Charlottesville lead over the Lions, Caleb Reeves came into the game for relief and would finish the inning for the Lions.
    
Reeves doubled in the top of the seventh inning scoring another run for the Lions, but it wouldn’t be enough. “We weren’t performing,” said Cash. “There is no reason we should have lost that game.” The Lions are set to play in a JV/Varsity doubleheader this Friday against Orange with JV starting at 4:30. “We’re going to come out ready,” said Barber. “That’s really all we can do.” Let’s Go Lions!

Baseball season is officially here. Amongst all of the hype for the start of the MLB season, college teams have already started their fight for the College World Series in Omaha, Nebraska. Although the college baseball season officially ended almost eight months ago, teams and coaches have not stopped working to find the best new talent to take their team to the end. Bringing in a new group of freshman and losing seniors can be a difficult thing to manage; the returning players and coaches adjust to the new roster they have. One player that isn’t having a hard time adjusting to the new atmosphere is Louisa County graduate, Tristan Snyder.

Snyder is starting his freshman season at the College of William and Mary and has already earned some high recognition. In his college debut, Snyder pitched 4.2 innings, allowing just three hits and no runs earning the win for the Tribe. “I will remember that day for the rest of my life,” said Snyder. But Snyder still noticed some differences between small town Louisa and Colonial Williamsburg, as many freshman would. “The players are bigger, faster, and have more developed skills than most high school players.” But this change hasn’t stopped Snyder from stepping on the mound when his team needs him and giving everything he has. In his 8.2 innings of pitching, Snyder only allowed six runs, three walks, and six strikeouts. “The largest difference I’ve noticed [between Louisa and William and Mary] is that everything is just much more competitive.”

During his time at Louisa County, Snyder was one of the most humble players in the organization. When asked about his pitching, he always replied with a comment about how strong his defense was behind him and he couldn’t have won the game without them. Snyder has carried that mindset into the next level of his baseball career. “The guys on the team are like brothers,” said Snyder. “It’s good to know that you’ve got thirty four other guys that have your back in any situation.” Although the team is now a band of brothers, some of Snyder’s teammates were competition in high school. Hunter Hart, first baseman and freshman for the Tribe, played against Snyder at Patrick Henry last season. “I enjoyed competing against Hunter Hart from Patrick Henry during the fall and preseason,” said Snyder. “Now that the spring season has begun, we all just support each other and try to encourage each other in all aspects of the game.”

Later in the season, Snyder and the Tribe are set to play James Madison University where former Louisa teammate Lliam Grubbs is continuing his education and baseball career. “I’m excited,” said Snyder. “ It will be nice to see Lliam and get a chance to compete against him. I look forward to seeing how we progress throughout the season and hopefully we can get matched up against each other at some point during the series.”

After his impressive career debut, Snyder was awarded the CAA Rookie of the Week Award. “Honestly, I didn’t expect the recognition because I didn’t even know that award was a thing at the time it was presented to me,” said Snyder. “On the flip side, I think it is important to go outing to outing and not let past outings affect how I like to focus on each outing.” “The ultimate goal of the team this year is to develop and get better as the season progresses and also compete at the highest level possible,” said Snyder. Of course, Snyder has already set some personal goals for himself throughout the season. “ My goal for my freshman season is to stay healthy and compete in every aspect possible throughout the entire season in whatever way contributes the most to the team.” Even though Snyder has moved on to a higher level of baseball, he continues to put passion and effort into everything he does while also continuing to stay humble and a team player. “The most important thing to remember is that everyone is good,” said Snyder. “It just takes rising to the level of competition that is presented to you every day.”

Louisa varsity baseball got their first taste of competition on Wednesday night against the Courtland Cougars. After losing seven seniors last year, the varsity lineup was incomplete, needing the help of sophomores to fill the roster. Louisa called up three sophomores for the scrimmage on Wednesday, Michael Barber, J.B Lamb, and Price Straley, all of them earning playing time.

Tristan Snyder, William and Mary commit, started on the mound for Louisa, struggling against the first two batters he faced, allowing a run in the first inning.  Snyder then got three quick outs and Courtland took the field. Courtland pitching dominated the first three innings with no hits, two errors, and two strikeouts.

In the top of the second, Snyder returned to the mound and the Cougars scored a run after a wild pitch. Louisa quickly rallied in the bottom of the fourth inning drawing back-to-back walks, a single, and an error. With Caleb Turner on third, Austin Nicholas hit a sacrifice fly to left field that scored Caleb Turner.
 
For the next three innings, Louisa gave up seven runs over seven hits and five walks, using four pitchers over the three innings. Courtland pitching continued to dominate only giving up two runs on four hits and eight walks through eight innings.

Louisa lost 9-2 in eight long innings. This was not the start the Lions wanted at the beginning of their season, however, Louisa came back to win on Saturday against Collegiate, 12-3, making them 1-1 on the season.

The Louisa Lions Varsity baseball team improves to 2-0 on the season after a 15-3 victory against the Charlottesville Black Knights. On a chilly Monday night, the Lions traveled to Charlottesville for their 5:00 game.

Dalton Richardson started on the mound for the Black Knights, giving up a leadoff single to Austin Nicholas. Richardson held the Louisa offense scoreless until the top of the second inning.

Tyler Earley got into the box with one out in the bottom of the second, drawing a single and soon after, a stolen base. With Blue Taylor up to bat, Earley scored on a wild pitch to give Louisa an early lead. Richardson walked Taylor, who later scored on an RBI double from Austin Nicholas.

Tristan Snyder got the ball for Louisa, pitching a no hitter through 4 innings. “You’ve got to get ahead, first pitch strikes,” said Snyder. “It’s so important. Then after that, you just hit your spots. If you hit your spots and they make contact, it usually won’t go anywhere.”

The bottom of the fourth inning was dominated by errors and passed balls, however Snyder managed to keep his no hitter alive. The Black Knights scored three runs in the bottom of the fourth inning, but could not catch up to the 9 runs Louisa had previously scored.

Louisa offense erupted once again in the top of the fifth inning, scoring two runs on one hit. After a single by senior Caleb Turner, two errors committed by Charlottesville defense allowed Turner and Nicholas to score easily. Austin Nicholas got the ball for the Lions in the bottom of the fifth drawing a 1-2-3 inning with back to back strikeouts.

Once again in the top of the sixth inning, Louisa offense soared through the roof. Sophomore J.B. Lamb walked and later scored on an RBI double from Caleb Turner. Garrett Duerson tripled and was later brought in by a passed ball by relief pitcher, Evan Baumgartner. The Lions drew three back to back walks, but left the runners stranded after a flyout to end the inning.

The Black Knights offense was once again held hitless in the bottom of the sixth inning. Third baseman Kai Oishi received the only walk off of a Louisa pitcher, however, Austin Nicholas held the runner to get three quick, easy outs.

Louisa pitching was dominant, throwing a combined no-hitter, and only allowing one walk. The game ended in slaughter rule after six long innings. Louisa is set to host Fluvanna County on Friday night, pending weather.  “We’re looking forward to it,” said Tristan Snyder. “We will practice all week and hopefully give y’all a good game.” The Junior Varsity team is also set to host Fluvanna on Friday evening, JV at 4:30, and Varsity at 7:00. Let’s go Lions!

On a rainy and chilly Tuesday night the Lions were back in action at North Stafford High School. The Lions came into the game undefeated, previously beating the Wolverines 6-2 in the first game of the season. Grubbs would get the start for Louisa on Tuesday, hoping to continue his dominate season.

The rain held off just enough for Austin Nicholas to lead off the top of the first for Louisa, drawing a walk and a stolen base. Grubbs later walked and Nicholas scored on a passed ball to give the Lions a 1-0 lead.

With one out in the bottom of the first, Mars Hill College commit Grayson Sims drew a walk to give the Wolverines their first baserunner. Grubbs served a hit to Cody Carter which advanced Sims to third. Grubbs battled back and got two quick outs to end the scoreless inning.

Louisa offense dominated the top of the second inning. Tyler Earley and Blue Taylor both reached on errors which put runners on third and first. After Caleb Turner was hit by a pitch, the bases were loaded for Nicholas, who drew a walk and later got out at second base. Back-to-back-to-back hits by Garrett Duerson, Lliam Grubbs, and Nate King allowed five runs to score, giving Louisa a 6-0 lead.

Grubbs pitching continued to impress in the bottom of the second and third innings striking out four batters. Two baserunners were allowed after an error and a hit by pitch, but Wolverine offense still failed to score a run. Louisa offense struggled in the top of the third and fourth inning with two strikeouts and three groundouts.
 
Grubbs finished his night in the bottom of the fourth with nine strikeouts and only one hit allowed. “With the weather being like it was,” explained Grubbs, “being able to stay focused, stay calm, and throw strikes, that’s the best I could do.”

Wolverine relief pitcher Kavaugh McGee started the top of the fifth inning with back-to-back walks to Nate King and Jack McDonald. Owen Ledford came in to relieve McGee and Wolverine defense allowed two base runners on errors.

Nicholas came in to pitch for Louisa in the bottom of the fifth inning, allowing five runs on six walks, two hit batters, and one hit through 2.2 innings.

Wolverine pitching struggled in the top of the seventh, drawing four walks and one hit. Louisa improved their lead 9-6 and would bring in junior Owen Agee to finish the game.

Agee allowed three hits and one run in the bottom of the seventh, but secured the save on a strikeout looking.

The precipitation and cold weather did not help either team, especially pitchers. “I couldn’t really command my offspeed,” said Grubbs. “I just had to hit my spots with my fastball.”

Louisa improves to 3-0 on the season and will face Patrick Henry on Wednesday night at 6:30. “Same mentality as today and enthusiasm,” explained Grubbs. “We are gonna come out and do the same thing we did today.”

The Lions continue their undefeated streak after securing two wins on Tuesday afternoon against Rappahannock. Game one started with senior Austin Nicholas on the mound for Louisa.

Nicholas got off to a fast start in the first inning allowing no runs with only one baserunner. Louisa offense failed to score a run in the first inning, however, the bats came alive in the second inning. Junior Jack McDonald led off the rally with a single to left field followed by a walk and a fielder’s choice to give Louisa a 3-0 lead over the Rappahannock Raiders.

The Raiders acquired their first hit in the third inning followed by two fielder’s choice, however, Raiders’ offense still failed to score a run. Louisa's offense allowed two baserunners in the bottom of the third, but kept their lead at 3-0 over the Raiders.

The Raiders scored their only run in the first game on a single from Jordan Hoover but quickly ended the inning on a strikeout. Nicholas pitched six strong innings to secure the win in game one for Louisa. “I really had command over my curveball today,” said Nicholas. “The defense played really well behind me. That was all I needed.”
 
When questioning Nicholas about the team’s approach in game two, he responded, “We knew we had to hit the ball better. We knew we had to have a better approach at the plate.”

The Lions had a strong game two, beating the Raiders 10-1. Sophomore Michael Barber started on the mound for the Lions in his first Varsity start. Barber allowed one walk, no hits, and no runs through three strong innings.

Louisa was held scoreless until the bottom of the third inning, sending ten batters to the plate. J.B. Lamb led off the inning with a single to left field followed by a walk from Blue Taylor. Senior Matt West drove in two runs on a double to left field. The next pitch, Lliam Grubbs doubled to bring in two more runs for the Lions. Jack McDonald brought in Grubbs on a single to centerfield giving the Lions a 5-0 lead.

Barber allowed three baserunners with one out in the top of the fourth, which then brought in junior Owen Agee to relieve. Agee got two quick outs and the Raiders were once again held scoreless. Louisa extended their lead to 10-0 through three innings after RBI’s from Grubbs, McDonald, King, and Lamb.

Agee only allowed one run in 3.2 innings pitched and Louisa improves to 6-0 on the season. “I just started the batters with strikes,” said Barber. “I’m feeling really good about my first start. The defense played really well today.”

The Lions look to continue their undefeated streak at Patrick Henry on Friday. Let’s go Lions!

The Louisa bats were on fire on Thursday night, collecting nine hits in the 7-0 win over Western Albemarle. Lliam Grubbs took the mound for Louisa, coming off of a rough outing against Patrick Henry last Friday. North Carolina State commit Garrett Payne started on the mound for the Warriors.

Austin Nicholas led off the top of the first inning, drawing a four pitch walk. Seniors Matt West and Lliam Grubbs followed with back-to-back singles to load the bases. Jack McDonald drew a walk to score Louisa’s first run of the game. Tristan Snyder followed with an RBI single to right field to give Louisa a 2-0 lead over the Warriors. Payne then recorded three quick outs to end the top of the first.  

Grubbs dominated the bottom of the first with strikes, only allowing one baserunner on a walk. After three quick groundouts, the inning was over and the Warriors stranded a baserunner.

With two outs in the top of the second, West recorded a single to centerfield to give Louisa their only baserunner of the inning. The bottom of the second was once again dominated by Grubbs’ strong pitching. After allowing a leadoff walk, the Warriors recorded back-to-back fielder's choices, however, the Lions still secured their 2-0 lead.  


McDonald led off the top of the third with a single to left field. Courtesy runner, Caleb Turner then stole second base and was brought in to score on an RBI single from Garrett Duerson. Grubbs recorded his first 1-2-3 inning with two groundouts and a flyout to centerfield in the bottom of the third inning.

Garrett Payne recorded three quick outs for the Warriors in the top of the fourth inning, his first inning with no runner allowed. Grubbs allowed a lead off single in the bottom of the fourth inning, his only hit allowed. Grubbs continued his dominant streak with only six baserunners allowed through four innings.

Grubbs led of the top of the fifth with a single followed by a walk to McDonald. With bases loaded, senior Tyler Earley hit a base clearing double to push Louisa’s lead to 6-0. “I’ve been struggling at the plate lately,” said Earley. “I just had to get the job done. It was a big hit and it kept the momentum going.” Earley later scored on a passed ball and increased the Louisa lead 7-0. Louisa failed to score another run in the next two at bats.

Through the next three innings, Grubbs allowed two baserunners, nine strikeouts and no runs. “Lliam struggled last time he pitched against Patrick Henry,” said Earley. “He wanted to come back and get the job done.”

The Lions improve to 8-1 on the season and will face Fluvanna county on Friday night at 7:00 after the JV game. “We are going in with the same approach and hopefully have the same outcome,” explained Earley. “It’s going to be a tough game but we’re ready.” Let’s go Lions

Photos courtesy of Andrew Woolfolk

Louisa fell just short against Powhatan on a very special Tuesday night in the baseball community. The Louisa County High School baseball field was dedicated to Coaches Joseph Bradford and Bill Pelot and will now be recognized as the Bradford-Pelot Field. The night started with a reception for the families and friends of both coaches and was followed by a ceremony on the field. The ceremony concluded after the unveiling of the new sign in center field and the varsity match-up was soon underway. “The entire community is a family,” said Bradford. “It is pretty easy to assimilate into a community where you feel welcome, where everyone pulls for one another. It’s heaven on earth as far as I’m concerned.”

Lliam Grubbs started on the mound for the Lions, coming off of a strong start against Western Albemarle last Thursday. Grubbs got three quick outs in the top of the first inning. Trenton Tiller started on the mound for the Indians, giving up a leadoff single to Austin Nicholas. After a stolen base from Nicholas, Grubbs drew a walk to give Louisa two baserunners, but quickly got three outs and the inning was over.

Grubbs pitched another 1-2-3 inning in the top of the second, holding the Indians to no hits through two innings. The inning quickly ended on a flyout to right field and Nate King would lead off for the Lions in the bottom of the second. With one out, Tyler Earley recorded a single to the shortstop to give Louisa another baserunner. The inning then ended on a strikeout swinging.

Grubbs continued his dominant pitching into the third inning with two strikeouts and a flyout to continue his no-hit bid. Austin Nicholas led off the bottom of the third inning for the Lions with a groundout to the third baseman. Senior, Matt West followed with a single to left field and later stole second base. Louisa still failed to score a run after stranding West in scoring position.

The Indians had a productive fourth inning, recording their first hits of the game. Logan Amiss started the rally with a catcher’s interference. Virginia Tech commit Brandon Eike followed with a single and Cody Willis walked to load the bases. Singles and errors allowed three runs to score, giving the Indians a 3-0 lead over Louisa. Grubbs then recorded three outs and the inning was over. With two outs in the bottom of the fourth inning, back-to-back singles from Tyler Earley and Garrett Duerson gave the Lions two baserunners, but failed to cut the Indians’ lead.

The Indians recorded three baserunners in the top of the fifth inning, but failed to score a run after a groundout to second base ended the inning. Austin Nicholas lead off the bottom of the fifth for the Lions with his second single of the game. West followed with a walk and Grubbs then nailed a single to centerfield to score Nicholas. “I knew I needed to get something on the ground,” said Grubbs. “I saw the curveball right out of his hands, and hit it back up the middle. Zach Tillery came in to pitch for the Indians against McDonald and struck him out. Eike was then brought in to pitch against Snyder and gave up an RBI double to right field. Eike then recorded the third out and Louisa trailed the Indians 3-2.

Grubbs continued pitching in the top of the sixth inning for the Lions, recording another 1-2-3 inning with two strikeouts. Tyler Earley then lead off the bottom of the sixth inning for Louisa. Pitcher Brandon Eike recorded his first 1-2-3 inning of the game with two strikeouts and a pop out.

Tristan Snyder came in to pitch for the Lions in the top of the seventh inning, allowing one baserunner on a walk. Snyder then recorded three outs and Louisa would get their final at bat of the game. With two outs in the bottom of the seventh, Grubbs drew a walk, but was stranded after McDonald struck out to end the game.  

Despite the loss, Grubbs only allowed three hits through 6 innings. “All of my stuff was working for me,” explained Grubbs. “I was hitting my spots. Just a tough inning and it hurt a little in the end.” Although the Lions lost a tough battle, the night was very special to coaches, players, family, and friends of the Louisa community. When asked about the highlight of his coaching career, Bradford responded, “The number of young men who, not only played baseball, but became good fathers, good citizens, and gave back to their communities. Those are the things that I value more than anything.” The Lions now stand 8-3 on the season and are set to face Monticello on Thursday night at 6:30. Let’s go Lions!

Lions improve to 10-3 on the year after Senior Austin Nicholas threw the first no-hitter of the season in a 10-0 shutout over Charlottesville High School. On a beautiful Thursday night, Nicholas got the call for the Lions, coming off of a strong outing against  Monticello.

Evan Baumgartner led off the top of the first for the Black Knights, hitting it back to Nicholas for the first out. Back-to-back strikeouts from Jack Rabinowitz and Dalton Richardson ended the top of the first.

With Chico Richardson on the mound for the Black Knights, Nicholas led off the bottom of the first for the Lions with a walk followed by a bunt single from Matt West. Soon after, Jack McDonald walked and the bases were loaded. Tyler Earley ripped a two out single which scored both Travis Pleasants, courtesy runner for Nicholas, and West to give Louisa an early 2-0 lead over the Black Knights.

Once again, Nicholas threw a 1-2-3 inning in the top of the second with three groundouts. Owen Agee led off the bottom of the second with a flyout to the left fielder. Caleb Turner followed with a single to left field and later a stolen base. The inning quickly ended on a pop out and Turner was stranded on second.

In the top of the third inning, Nicholas recorded his third and fourth strikeouts of the game with only 14 pitches, continuing to dominate Charlottesville's offense.

With two outs in the bottom of the third, Tristan Snyder singled to the third baseman and soon stole second. Earley then ripped an RBI single to left field to increase Louisa’s lead 3-0.

Nicholas recorded all three outs himself in the top of the fourth inning, with his fifth strikeout of the game. Louisa’s bats came alive in the bottom of the fourth inning. Turner led off the rally with a single to left center. The Black Knights brought in sophomore Tyler Williams to relieve Richardson. Back-to-back singles from Nicholas and West scored Turner to give Louisa a 4-0 lead. McDonald reached on an error from the second baseman and advanced to scoring position on a single from Snyder. Tyler Earley then hit his fourth RBI of the night with a single to centerfield, giving Louisa a 8-0 over Charlottesville. When asked about his night, Earley believed that he needed to adjust to the pitcher. “I went in with a different approach today,” explained Earley. “I had to get up in the box and took a cut at it. It seemed to be working today.”

Nicholas lost his perfect game bid after a two out hit by pitch and his only walk of the night, but kept the no hitter alive. “I was just getting ahead with my fastballs,” explained Nicholas. “That was my main focus coming into the game tonight was throwing strikes and letting the defense work.” Williams flew out to the left fielder, and the inning was soon over.

Pinch hitter Kyron Butler led off the bottom of the fifth for the Lions with a double to center field. With two outs, sophomore J.B. Lamb nailed a triple to the left field fence, scoring Butler. After the ball went out of play on a Charlottesville error, Lamb scored the walk-off run and Louisa slaughtered Charlottesville 10-0. “It was the greatest moment in my life for baseball,” explained Lamb. “I wasn’t even thinking about it, to be honest. It was great!”

Louisa is set to face Orange on Friday and Fluvanna on Tuesday. “We owe Orange two big ones,” explained Earley. “They beat us both times last year so we’re coming to get them this year.”  Let’s go Lions!

After one of the longest, hard fought games of the season, the Lions came out on top and beat Fluvanna on their own turf. Tristan Snyder got the call for the Lions, coming off of a strong outing against Monticello, while Kevin Ward got the start for the Flucos.

Austin Nicholas and Matt West led off the top of the first with back-to-back singles, followed by a walk from Lliam Grubbs. Jack McDonald followed with a single to right field, scoring Nicholas and West. Snyder then nailed a single to right field to score Grubbs, giving Louisa an early 3-0 lead over Fluvanna. Nate King grounded out to the shortstop for the second out, but it was enough to score Snyder. The inning ended on a groundout, however the Lions jumped into a first inning rally, scoring 4 runs.

Dashon Carter led off the bottom of the first for Fluvanna with a swinging strikeout. Ryan Groome followed with a groundout back to the pitcher. Snyder recorded the third out on a strikeout.

J.B Lamb led off the top of the second inning with a double to the right field fence. Ward then recorded three quick outs, and Lamb was stranded in scoring position. Fluvanna started their own rally in the bottom of the second with Kevin Ward hitting a single to centerfield. Snyder recorded his third strikeout of the game after Cameron Shields went down swinging. Kyle Algieri nailed an RBI double to left field, scoring Ward. After Trey Lyons was hit by a pitch, Jack Kershner drove a 2 run double to score Algieri and Lyons. “I was just trying to stay short with my swings and put the ball in play,” said Kershner. “I was able to do that my first at bat and from then on, I just went in with the same approach.” Ryan Groome then hit a single to left field to score Kershner, tying the game at 4-4. The second inning then ended on a groundout to the shortstop.

McDonald led off the top of the third with a groundout to the third baseman. Snyder followed with a triple to centerfield, while Travis Pleasants came in as a courtesy runner. Tyler Earley grounded into a fielder’s choice to the second baseman who threw out Pleasants at home for the second out of the inning. The top half of the third ended on a fly out to the left fielder. Snyder recorded another 1-2-3 inning in the bottom of the third with a tremendous catch from the centerfielder, Blue Taylor, to end the inning.

The top of the fourth inning got off to a fast start with two quick outs. Back-to-back walks to Nicholas and West gave Louisa two baserunners, however a flyout to the right fielder ended the inning.  

Kyle Algieri led off for the Flucos in the bottom of the fourth, reaching on an error from the third baseman and soon stole second. Snyder then recorded his fourth and fifth strikeouts of the game to give Louisa two outs. Carter then drove an RBI single to centerfield to give Fluvanna a 5-4 advantage over Louisa. Carter was thrown out by catcher Garrett Duerson to end the inning.

Sophomore, Toby Sherman came in to relieve Ward in the top of the fifth inning, striking out his first batter. With two outs, Earley nailed a single to left field, but was stranded on first after a lineout ended the inning.  Snyder faced the minimum number of batters in the bottom of the fifth, recording three quick outs and holding Fluvanna to a 5-4 lead.

Sherman allowed one baserunner in the top of the sixth after a walk to Duerson, but recorded three quick outs to hold onto the lead. Andrew Ward led off the bottom of the sixth for the Flucos with a groundout to the second baseman. Algieri reached on a drop third strike to give Fluvanna their first base runner in the inning followed by a walk to Sherman. Jack Kershner ended the inning with a flyout to the right fielder.

George Washington commit, Shaun Holyfield, relieved Sherman in the top of the seventh for the Flucos. Holyfield walked the first two batters he faced, bringing in Algieri to pitch for the Flucos. Algieri recorded the first out on a pop out to the pitcher. Earley hit a single to the shortstop to load the bases. Owen Agee followed with a squeeze bunt to the third base side, reaching first and scoring Grubbs to tie the game. “I don’t start,” said Agee. “I bunt all the time and work on it more than anyone else. I walked up to coach and said squeeze me, and I got it done.” Duerson followed with a walk and Lamb reached on an error, scoring two more runs. Nicholas nailed an RBI single to score Lamb but was thrown out on the way to second. West followed with a single and was brought home by an RBI single from Grubbs, who was thrown out at second to end the inning. After a seven run inning, Louisa led Fluvanna 11-5, only needing three outs in the bottom of the seventh to secure the win.

Snyder would continue to pitch in the bottom of the seventh, hitting the first batter of the inning. “Sometimes the curveball wouldn’t spot up,” said Snyder. “You’ve got to go back to what you know.” Ryan Groome then flew out to the centerfielder for the first out. Jacob Critzer grounded into a double play to end the game and secure a Louisa win.

Snyder pitched 7 complete innings, only allowing one walk, five hits, and five runs. “I thought it was a great game,” said Snyder. “I’m just glad I had a team behind me, helping me out the whole game. It’s about putting the ball in play, relying on your defense. They did a great job tonight.”

When asked about the challenging game, Coach Kevin Fisher responded, “I’m pretty excited. Especially for us to go up, go down, and come back and do what we did in the seventh. It shows a lot of heart for these guys and I’m very proud of them.”

The Lions will travel to Albemarle on Thursday to face the Patriots for the second match-up of the season. Let’s go Lions!

After celebrating senior night in Louisa, a pitchers dual took place between the Warriors and Lions, with only six combined hits on the night. Tristan Snyder got the call for the Lions, coming off of a strong outing against Fluvanna County. The Warriors would rely on Radford commit, Derek Domecq, to face the persistent Louisa line-up.

Junior, Wyatt Hull led off the top of the first for Western with a hard ground ball hit to second baseman, Owen Agee, for the first out. Snyder recorded the second out on a three pitch strikeout to Brendan Campbell. The inning ended after senior Chris McGahren grounded out to the third baseman.

Austin Nicholas led off for Louisa in the bottom of the first with a hard hit ball to the left fielder. Nicholas advanced to second after Matt West was hit by the pitch, but was thrown out on a fielder’s choice. Domecq would retire the next two batters on back-to-back strikeouts to end the inning.

Snyder continued his dominance in the top of the second, striking out the side on three swinging strikeouts. Tyler Earley led off the bottom of the second for the Lions with a walk, who advanced to second after Kyron Butler reached on an error from the shortstop. Agee followed with a bunt single to load the bases. Nicholas reached on an error to score a run, followed by two groundouts to end the inning, the Lions taking a 2-0 lead over the Warriors.

Once again, Snyder threw a 1-2-3 inning in the top of the third, retiring one batter on a strikeout and Junior, Devin Powell ended the inning with a lineout to the first baseman, Snyder holding on to his no hitter. Domecq faced just three batters in the bottom of the third, recording his fourth strikeout of the game.

Snyder carried his perfect game into the top of the fourth, recording three groundouts to finish the inning. Kyron Butler led off the bottom of the fourth for the Lions with a single to centerfield and advanced to second on a wild pitch from Domecq. Agee bunted back to the pitcher for the first out, but advanced Butler to third. Butler then scored on another wild pitch form Domecq to give the Lions a 3-0 lead  over the Warriors.

Snyder allowed his first base runner of the night in the top of the fifth on a walk to Domecq. To break up the no hitter, Garrett Payne followed with a single to centerfield. Snyder then recorded his sixth strikeout after Jacob Lively went down swinging. Jack Masloff followed with a fielder’s choice for the second out. Senior, Luke Tenuta followed with a strikeout to end the inning while Snyder held the Warriors to no runs through five innings. Domecq faced three batters in the bottom of the fifth, recording his fifth strikeout of the game.

Snyder recorded his eighth strikeout of the game in the top of the sixth, facing just three batters on eleven pitches. Snyder then led off the bottom of the sixth inning for the Lions with a huge double to the centerfield fence. “I was just trying to make contact tonight,” said Snyder. “I guess I got lucky.” Snyder advanced to third after a groundout from Earley. Domecq then recorded back-to-back strikeouts to end the inning.

The Warriors recorded their second hit of the night in the top of the seventh inning after Payne ripped a two out single to right field, however, Snyder then recorded the third out, and secured the win for the Lions. Snyder finished the night with eight strikeouts, two hits, and one walk. “I’m feeling really good,” said Snyder. “I was having fun tonight.”

The Lions improve to 14-3 on the season and will now face Powhatan on Friday night at 6:00. Let’s go Lions!

Tuesday night was a big night for Louisa County Baseball, both JV and Varsity. Brothers, Ethan and Tristan Snyder both threw no-hitters for their respective teams against the Monticello Mustangs. The Varsity Lions beat the Mustangs 5-0 while JV beat the Mustangs 12-0. Senior, Dylan Booth got the call for Monticello.

Austin Nicholas led off the top of the first for the Lions with a walk. Matt West followed with a home run to left field to give Louisa an early 2-0 lead. “Hit the ball,” said West. “I had to get on base and advance Austin from second.” Lliam Grubbs recorded the first out on a groundout to the shortstop. Junior, Jack McDonald then drove a single to right field, but was stranded after back-to-back strikeouts ended the top half of the first. Tyler Walker led off for the Mustangs in the bottom of the first with a groundout to the second baseman. Snyder recorded his first strikeout of the game after Kevin Jarrell went down swinging. Matthew Allen recorded the final out of the first inning after grounding out to the first baseman.

Garrett Duerson led off the top of the second for the Lions with a walk and a stolen base. Duerson was stranded in scoring position after two pop outs and a strikeout ended the inning. The Mustangs recorded their first base runner in the bottom of the second after Snyder gave up a walk to Booth. Steve Morgan followed with a double play ball hit back to Snyder, clearing the bases. Snyder recorded the third out on a strikeout to sophomore, Grayson Bush.

West led off for the Lions in the top of the third with a hard ground ball hit back to the pitcher for the first out. Grubbs followed with a walk and a stolen base. McDonald flew out on a hard hit ball to the centerfielder for the second out of the inning. Back-to-back walks to Snyder and Tyler Earley loaded the bases, bringing Duerson to the plate. Booth then walked Duerson to bring another run in for the Lions. C.J. Houchens came in to pitch for the Mustangs. Junior, Owen Agee then nailed a double to bring in Snyder and Earley, giving the Lions a 5-0 lead over Monticello. Snyder faced the minimum number of batters in the bottom of the third, recording three swinging strikeouts.

Booth recorded his first 1-2-3 inning in the top of the fourth. Nicholas led off the inning with a groundout to the shortstop. Booth recorded his fifth strikeout on a called strike three to West. Grubbs lined out to the left fielder to end the inning. Walker led off for the Mustangs in the bottom of the fourth with a walk. Jarrell grounded into a fielder’s choice, reaching first on the play. Allen followed with a groundout to the second baseman for the second out. Snyder recorded his sixth strikeout for the third out of the inning.

McDonald was hit by the first pitch in the top of the fifth. Snyder popped out to the first baseman for the first out and courtesy runner, J.B Lamb, was caught stealing for the second out. Earley followed with a walk, but was stranded after Duerson grounded out to the second baseman to end the top half of the fifth. Snyder gave up a leadoff walk to Morgan to give the Mustangs their fourth base runner of the game. The Lions turned their second double play of the game on a 6-4-3 ground ball. Snyder recorded the third out on a swinging strikeout to Desmond Kidd-Revis.

Owen Agee recorded the first out in the top of the sixth inning on a bunt attempt to the pitcher. Pinch hitter, Kyron Butler, drove a ball to the center fielder for the second out. Nicholas followed with a hard ground ball to the second baseman for the third out of the inning. Sid Carver led off the bottom of the sixth, reaching first after being hit by the pitch. The Lions once again turned a double play after junior, Dylan Zimmerman, nailed a hard ground ball to the shortstop.

Houchens recorded two quick outs to begin the top of the seventh after pop outs from West and Grubbs. McDonald was then hit by the pitch for the second time of the night, but was stranded after Snyder grounded out to the shortstop for the third out.

Snyder needed just three quick outs in the bottom of the seventh to secure the no-hitter, and that is exactly what he did. Jarrell led off with a ground ball hit back to Snyder for the first out. Allen popped out to the second baseman for the second out leaving Snyder with one more out to secure his second no-hitter of the season. The Lions won the game after Booth struck out looking. The Lions now improve to 15-4 on the season.

Snyder finished the game with eight strikeouts, three walks, and no errors in the field. “This game meant more of a boost as we go into regionals,” said Snyder. “We didn’t come out against Powhatan, but it’s a good thing we came out tonight.”

The Lions will face Orange County on Thursday, looking for another win going into the postseason next week. “It’s good to see that we are playing defense,” said Coach Kevin Fisher. “It would be nice to see our bats wake up a little more. But I’m very pleased with how we came out tonight.” Let’s go Lions!

After the longest and closest game of the season, the Lions fell short against the Dinwiddie Generals Tuesday night, ending their postseason run. Tristan Snyder started on the mound for the Lions while Tomas Sanchez got the call for the Generals.

Snyder went 1-2-3 in the first three innings. The Lions turned a 4-6-3 double play in the first inning to empty the bases. Snyder recorded back-to-back strikeouts in the top half of the second, his first of the game. Snyder once again recorded two strikeouts in the top of the third.
Sanchez recorded two quick innings of his own, striking out two batters and allowing just one baserunner from a walk.

Louisa started their own two out rally in the bottom of the third. After back-to-back strikeouts to Garrett Duerson and Owen Agee, J.B Lamb ripped a double to centerfield. Nicholas followed with his own single into right field, scoring Lamb and advancing to second base after a throwing error from the second baseman. Austin Nicholas made one of the best plays of the game in the top of the third after he dove for a ground ball down the third baseline to get the second out of the inning.

The Generals recorded their first hit of the night in the top of the fourth inning. With two outs, Zack Donovan hit a blooper over the third baseman’s head. Luke Costley then reached first after an error from the second baseman, however the Generals failed to score a run in the inning. Snyder only allowed one baserunner in the top of the fifth on a walk, and recorded his seventh strikeout of the game.

Louisa scored another run in the bottom of the fourth, increasing their lead to 2-0. Lliam Grubbs led off the inning with a walk. Jack McDonald then ripped an RBI triple to left center field, but was stranded. “The pitcher just hung a curveball,” said McDonald. “He was throwing curveballs all game. I wasn’t expecting a full count, but I was open for anything.” The Lions had one baserunner in the bottom of the fifth after Lamb, working a full count, drew a walk, but was caught stealing to end the inning.

Brian Sheeder began the top of the sixth inning with a single to left field. Sanchez followed with an inside the park homerun, bringing in 2 runs to tie the game. Snyder then allowed a walk, but recorded two strikeouts to end the inning, his ninth of the night. Snyder recorded another 1-2-3 inning in the top of the seventh with two strikeouts.

Louisa stranded another runner in scoring position in the bottom of the sixth inning after Matt West drew a walk and advanced to third after a wild pitch. Dinwiddie then brought in senior, Ryan Kelly to get the third out of the inning. Kelly recorded his first 1-2-3 inning in the bottom of the seventh, the inning ending on a hard ground ball back to the pitcher.

Snyder recorded the first out of the top of the eighth inning on a ground out to the second baseman, the last batter Snyder would face. The Lions would bring in Grubbs, who would strikeout Sanchez and record a pop out to end the inning. Grubbs gave up a leadoff walk in the top of the ninth, but recorded two strikeouts and a groundout to end the inning, the game still tied at 2-2. Kelly recorded two 1-2-3 innings in the eighth and ninth innings.

Cody Jewett led off for the Generals in the top of the tenth with a double to left field and advanced to second after a sacrifice bunt from Jaron McNeil. Grubbs recorded a swinging strikeout for the second out of the inning. Grubbs then intentionally walked Sanchez and Donovan. Jewett then scored on a wild pitch, giving the Generals a 3-2 lead in the top of the tenth. Kelly recorded three quick outs in the bottom of the tenth inning, securing a win for the Generals, moving them further into postseason play.

Snyder finished the game with 7.1 innings pitched, eleven strikeouts, and two walks. “Just went in, playoff game, normal game,” said Snyder. “At this point, we gotta throw strikes and try to win.” Despite the loss, the Lions played a great season. “It’s the end of an era,” said Snyder. “I love all of these guys, and I’m glad I got the opportunity to play with them.” Let’s go Lions!