HUNTER COOKSTON
Writer
The Whitwell Tigers and Marion County Warriors faced off on the diamond last Thursday in a tightly contested matchup. The game turned into a pitching duel highlighted by strong defense on both sides. In the end, Whitwell came away with a 2-1 victory.
Sophomore Brody Harvey started on the mound for the Tigers, throwing 4.1 innings and allowing one run on three hits. Harvey earned the win for Whitwell, while Brayden Riley picked up the save. Alex Barker got the start for Marion County, pitching six innings and allowing two runs on seven hits. Barker also recorded four strikeouts on the night.
Offense was limited for both teams, as hitters consistently made solid contact but found gloves. The Tigers broke through when freshman Kaden Miller singled to left field. Brayden Riley followed with a sacrifice fly in the bottom of the fourth, driving in pinch runner Trent Tuders. Marion County scored its lone run in the top of the fifth on a fielder’s choice.
Colin Beason and Eli Robertson led Whitwell with two hits each, while Grayson Hoback paced the Warriors with three hits in the game.
Whitwell’s next game is Thursday at Bledsoe at 5 p.m., followed by a home game Friday at 5 p.m. Marion County will play at home on Thursday at 5 p.m.