STATE BOUND: Gordonsville Sweeps South Pittsburg In Class 1A Sectionals; Colton Bennett Strikes Out 16 In Game Two

By Michael Lindsay

The Gordonsville Tigers are headed to the Class 1A baseball state tournament for the second time in three seasons following their sweep of South Pittsburg In Wednesday’s sectional double header.

The Tigers won game one at Crump Paris Park 15-5 and game two 12-0, both in 6 innings.

“It took a team effort,” said Gordonsville head coach Travis Humes. “It took staying connected like we’ve been all year. This is a special group and we had a goal to put up new banners. Credit South Pittsburg for a great season and we’re thankful to be able to compete.”

Class 1A Mr. Baseball finalist Colton Bennett led the way in game two as the lefty pitcher struck out 16 batters while allowing X hits and X walks in 6 innings.

“He commanded the zone with his fastball and used the breaking ball when he needed to,” said Humes. “He’s always locked in and prepared. It’s a college mentality and East Tennessee State University is getting a really great pitcher and even better young man.

Big innings were the key in both games as the Tigers scored 8 runs in the bottom of the fourth in game one and 7 runs in the fifth in game two. Gordonsville racked up 30 hits in the two games led by Rook Rackley and Cason Stinnett with 5 hits each.

“We’ve been talking a lot about this week, not the ‘what-ifs,’ but the what is,” said Humes.” My dad passed away in March, And I really wanted to pour into this opportunity because these guys deserve it. My dad would be really happy right now.”

Gordonsville will take the field next in the Class 1A state tournament in Murfreesboro on Tuesday while opponent, time and location are TBD.

“We’re going to rest, recover and recharge our batteries, said Humes.”We’re going to go celebrate the flag football team in the state tournament and watch our softball in the substate at home on Friday. It’s a special time here at Gordonsville.”