One season after falling to Jackson County in the 13th Region All “A” Classic finals, the Harlan Green Dragons found themselves matched against Jackson County in the tournament’s opening game Monday.
Freshman right-hander Baylor Varner limited the visiting Generals to three hits, but Jackson County made the most of its opportunities to edge Harlan 3-1.
“It was a tough loss against a good Jackson Coimtu team. It’s one of those games that could go either way down the stretch,” Harlan coach Lee Freyer said. “We played a pretty clean game all around. I’m proud of the effort and focus tonight. We just came up a little short.
“Looking back, I cost us a run in the first. I have to be better than that in close-game situations. I coach a little better tonight and the outcome would have been different.”
Ashton Clemons, a freshman, was also impressive as he tossed a five-hitter with eight strikeouts and four walks. Varner struck out nine and walked three.
Brayden Thomas, Tydus Summers and Lucas Elam each hit singles for Jackson County (3-3).
Donovan Montanaro, Jared Moore, Luke Luttrell, Nate Montanaro and Eli Freyer had one single each for the Dragons.
Montanaro gave the Dragons an early lead when he walked in the first inning and scored on Moore’s bunt single.
Noah Collett’s RBI ground out in the third inning tied the game.
Summers’ RBI double in the fifth inning put the Generals ahead. Cayden Farmer’s sacrifice fly brought in Summers.
“Baylor pitched a heck of a ballgame in a complete game three-hit effort. I think some of our young guys are gaining valuable experience in these type of close games,” Freyer said. “Brody (Owens) called a great game behind the plate. We still need to cut down on strikeouts, although we did outhit Jackson. They took advantage with one timely hit that was the difference in the ballgame.”
The 2-3 Dragons return to action Thursday at home against Lynn Camp.
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Jackson County 001 020 0 — 3. 3. 1
Harlan 100 000 0 — 1. 5. 1
Clemons and Elam; Varner and Owens WP — Clemmons. LP — Varner (1-1).