Baseball dominates Southwest Virginia in a weekend matchup

In a doubleheader matchup between Southwest Virginia and Cleveland Community on February 24, 2024, Cleveland dominated both games, winning the first game 8-0 and the second game 18-7.

In the first game, Cleveland got off to a strong start, scoring five runs in the first inning and never looking back. Pitcher George Tripplet had a solid outing, pitching 5 innings and allowing only 3 hits while striking out 5 batters. Offensively, Aiden Schenck led the way with a double and 2 RBIs, helping Cleveland Community secure the 8-0 victory.

In the second game, Southwest Virginia put up a fight, scoring 7 runs, but Cleveland's offense exploded for 18 runs. Joel Gardner had a standout performance, hitting a home run and driving in 5 RBIs. Pitcher Keely Furr struggled on the mound, giving up 5 runs in 2 innings of work, but the Cleveland offense more than made up for it with a total of 9 hits and 18 runs scored.

The Yetis showcased their offensive firepower in both games, outscoring Southwest Virginia 26-7 in the doubleheader sweep. 

In the third matchup of the weekend on Sunday, February 25, Cleveland dominated once again with a final score of 16-4. The Yetis got off to a strong start, scoring 4 runs in the first inning and continuing to build on their lead throughout the game.

Cleveland's offense was led by Owen Liberto, who had a standout performance with 2 doubles, a home run, and 2 RBIs. Kaden Swaim also contributed with a home run and 2 RBIs, while Gavin Baucom added a home run and 3 RBIs. Overall, Cleveland's hitters combined for 11 hits and 14 RBIs in the game.

On the pitching side, Ian Hawk put in a solid performance for Cleveland, allowing only 1 earned run over 3 innings pitched. Clay Haigh and Carter Mills also contributed with scoreless innings to close out the game.

Southwest Virginia struggled to keep up with Cleveland's offense, managing only 3 hits and 4 runs in the game. A. Mitchem, N. Lunsford, and M. McGlothli all saw time on the mound for Southwest Virginia, but were unable to contain Cleveland's hitters.

Overall, Cleveland Community's strong offensive performance and solid pitching led them to a decisive victory over Southwest Virginia.