Dragons sweep Luella, earn first trip to Sweet 16
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports April 28, 2022
Jasper, Ga — After sweeping the Ridgeland Panthers last week, the Pickens Dragons earned the #2 seed for 7-AAAA. For the first time in school history, the Dragons would be hosting a playoff series as they welcomed the #3 seed out of region 5, the Luella Lions. The 4A State Baseball Tournament format is a doubleheader on one day, and if needed, a third and final game the next day. Two wins advances you to the next round. The Dragons, had outstanding pitching in both games on Wednesday, April 27th, and the bats weren’t bad either as they swept the Lions in the doubleheader, 16-1 and 12-1.
Game 1:
Trey Payne took the mound for the Dragons in game 1 of the best of 3 series and he was fantastic. Payne, got the Lions in order with a strikeout, a pop out, and a fly out to left field on 12 pitches to send it to the bottom of the first. In the bottom of the first, the designated hitter Sam Hammontree, led off with a double. Hammontree, would then advance to 3rd on a grounder by Trace Ledbetter. Anthony Antinozzi would drive in Hammontree on another grounder to give the Dragons a 1-0 lead going to the second.
In the top of the second, Payne picked up where he left off in the first as he again sat Luella down in order on 11 pitches. In the bottom half of the second, Payne led off by reaching on an error by the center fielder. After a pop out and a fly out, James Tilley drew a walk to reach 1st. Colby Brooks, then laced a single into the outfield as both courtesy runner Tee Knight and Tilley would come around to score to make it 3-0 Dragons. Hammontree, then hit another double, this one scoring Brooks to make it 4-0 Pickens going to the third.
In the top of the third, Payne got the bottom third of the Lions lineup in order on 11 pitches to send the Dragons bats back up to the plate. In the bottom of the third, Pickens broke things open. Using 6 hits, a couple of errors, and several stolen bases, the Dragons scored 7 runs in the bottom of the third to make it 11-0 going to the the fourth.
In the top of the fourth, Luella got it’s only hit and run of the game off of a solo home run. The Lions, would also draw a 2-out walk, but Payne would get the next batter to pop up to Evan Giddens on the next pitch to send it to the bottom of the fourth with Pickens leading, 11-1. In the bottom of the fourth, Cade Sutton reached on a 1-out walk. Giddens, then drove him in with an RBI single. Tilley, then reached on a single of his own. Brooks, would drive in both Giddens and Tilley with a 2 RBI single to make it 14-1. With 2 outs, Ledbetter stepped to the plate. On a 1-0 count, he would smack one over the left field wall for a 2-run home run and to walk off game one giving the Dragons a 16-1 win.
Game 2:
For game 2 of the best of 3 series, the Dragons were designated the “away” team, and the Lions were designated the “home” team. In the top of the first, the Dragons carried over their hot bats from game 1 as Sam Hammontree led off with a double. Trace Ledbetter would drive him in with an RBI single. Anthony Antinozzi, then drew a walk. After Ledbetter advanced to 3rd, the Dragons did a double steal as Antinozzi took 2nd, and Ledbetter came home on the throw to 2nd to make it 2-0. Antinozzi, was then able to tag up and advance to 3rd after a fly ball to right field by Harlan Will. Antinozzi, came in to score on a sacrifice by Trey Payne to make it 3-0 Pickens going to the bottom of the first. In the bottom of the first, Dragons starter JP Nunn, got into a bit of a jam as he issued a 1-out walk and then the next batter would reach on an error to put runners at 2nd and 3rd. Nunn, was able to shake it off and pick up his 1st and 2nd strikeout of the game to send it to the second with the Dragons ahead, 3-0.
In the top of the second, Pickens got hits from Hammontree, Antinozzi, and Will as they plated 4 runs on 3 hits and 2 errors to stretch the lead out to 7-0 going to the bottom of the frame. In the bottom of the second, Nunn had a less stressful half inning as he picked up his 3rd and 4th strikeout and sat the Lions down on just 9 pitches. Going to the third, the Dragons led Luella, 7-0.
In the top of the third, James Tilley reached on an error by the 3rd baseman with 2-out to keep the inning alive. Colby Brooks, drove in Tilley with a double to make it 8-0 Pickens going to the bottom of the third. In the bottom of the third, Nunn kept rolling as he picked up his 5th and 6th strikeout of the game and sent it to the fourth with the Dragons leading, 8-0.
In the top of the fourth, Ledbetter led off with a walk. After Antinozzi flew out to right, Will drew a walk. Payne, brought in both runs with a base hit to make it 10-0. After a fly out by Sutton, Giddens drew a walk. Tilley, would then bring in Payne with an RBI single to make it 11-0. Brooks, followed that up with an RBI single of his own as Giddens would come in to score. Going to the bottom of the fourth, Pickens led Luella, 12-0. In the bottom of the fourth, the Lions got on the board again with a solo home run to make it 12-1. Luella followed that up with a little bloop hit down the right field line. Payne, patrolling right, got to the ball and threw a strike to Tilley covering 2nd to get the runner trying to stretch a single into a double. Nunn, did the rest of the work in the fourth as he picked up his 7th and 8th strikeout to send it to the fifth with the Dragons up, 12-1.
In the top of the fifth, the Dragons brought in some substitutions to get an at bat. First up, Cason Cannon, who sent a shot right back where it came from, but was caught by the pitcher. After a line out to right by Stephens, Jackie Jarrett drew a 2-out walk. He would be left stranded at 1st as the Lions got a strikeout to send it to the bottom of the fifth. In the bottom of the fifth, Ledbetter came on to try to finish this game off. After striking out the first two batters looking, the Lions were able to draw a 2-out walk. Not fazed by the walk, Ledbetter struck out the next batter looking to seal the win 12-1, and send the Dragons to the Sweet 16.
Up next for the Dragons, a date with the Thomas County Central Yellow Jackets in the Sweet 16. The Yellow Jackets, are the #1 seed out of region 1. They swept New Hampstead in the first round. This will be the Dragons first ever trip to the Sweet 16 of the state baseball tournament. Games 1 and 2 are set for Tuesday, May 3rd and the “if” game is set for May 4th. Times are to be determined.
Dragons sweep series with Southeast Whitfield
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports April 9, 2022
Jasper, Ga — After defeating the Raiders on Tuesday, 13-1, the Pickens Dragons welcomed Southeast Whitfield to Dunn Field for games 2 and 3 of the series on Friday, April 8th. After a tough stretch that included a 4 game losing skid, the Dragons looked to sweep the Raiders and keep pace near the top of the 7-AAAA standings. Using timely pitching in game 2, and hot bats in game 3, the Dragons did indeed pick up the sweep.
Game 2:
Trey Payne started for the Dragons in game 2 of the series. After giving up a 1-out solo home run, Payne settled down and sent it to the bottom of the first. In the bottom of the first, Trace Ledbetter and Anthony Antinozzi both reached on 1-out walks. Harlan Will, then reached on an error, which allowed both Ledbetter and Antinozzi to score. Trey Payne then laced a double into the outfield to put runners at 2nd and 3rd. The Raiders, were able to force two consecutive pop outs to get out of the inning. Going to the second, Pickens led Southeast Whitfield, 2-1.
In the top of the second, Payne worked around a pair of walks as he picked up his first two strikeouts of the game to send us to the bottom of the frame. In the bottom of the second, Evan Giddens reached with a 1-out single and Ledbetter reached with a 2-out walk. They would be left stranded however as the Raiders once again forced a fly out to end the inning and keep it 2-1 Dragons going to the third.
In the top of the third, Southeast Whitfield retook the lead using two hits and two walks to plate 2 runs to make it 3-2 Raiders. In the bottom of the third, Pickens went down in order. Going to the top of the fourth, the Raiders now led the Dragons, 3-2.
Tate Hales came on in relief of Trey Payne in the top of the fourth and Hales had a phenomenal outing. Hales, kept the Raiders bats quiet in the top of the fourth to send it to the bottom of the frame. Hales, then reached on a 1-out single. Tyler Payne, then reached on a 2-out single. The Raiders, were able to get the runner at the plate to end the inning and send it to the fifth with Southeast Whitfield still leading, 3-2.
In the top of the fifth, Hales again held the Raiders scoreless as his impressive outing continued. In the bottom of the fifth, Antinozzi reached on a 1-out single. Will, then reached after drawing a walk to put runners at 1st and 2nd with still 1-out. After the runners moved up to 2nd and 3rd, Trey Payne drove in Antinozzi with a grounder to the second baseman. After a 2-out walk drawn by Cade Sutton, the Dragons had runners at 1st and 3rd. The Raiders, were able to get out of the inning having just given up the 1 run. Going to the sixth, Pickens and Southeast Whitfield were tied at 3.
In the top of the sixth, Hales needed just 5 pitches to sit the Raiders down in order, and send it to the bottom of the inning. In the bottom of the frame, Hales, reached with his second hit of the game. Colby Brooks, running for Hales, stole 2nd to get in scoring position. Sam Hammontree, who came on in the top of the inning as a replacement for Ledbetter, drove in Brooks with an RBI single to give the Dragons a 4-3 lead going to the seventh.
JP Nunn came on in relief of Hales to try and close it out. The Raiders, made it interesting as they drew three straight walks to load the bases. Nunn, then forced a grounder to the shortstop Giddens who threw home for the force out. Nunn, then got back to back strikeouts to close it out and give the Dragons the 4-3 win.
Game 3:
After winning game 2 and taking the series, the Dragons looked to get the three game sweep over the Southeast Whitfield Raiders. In the top of the 1st, Dragons starter James Tilley needed 11 pitches to get the Raiders in order. In the bottom of the first, Pickens struck early as Harlan Will led off with a walk, his courtesy runner Tee Knight, stole 2nd, reached 3rd on a wild pitch, then ended up scoring on that same wild pitch. Anthony Antinozzi, who drew to walk initially, reached 2nd during the madness. Tyler Payne, then drove in Antinozzi with a 1-out double to make it 2-0 Dragons. Cade Sutton, followed that RBI double with an RBI double of his own to score Payne to make it 3-0 Pickens going to the second.
In the top of the second, Tilley continued his stellar outing as he needed 10 pitches to get out of the top half of the second. In the bottom of the second, the Dragons bats came alive. Pickens, batted around and plated 7 runs to stretch their lead over the Raiders to 10-0 going to the third.
In the top of the third, Tilley struck out the side to bring his total to 4 on the night. Heading to the bottom of the frame, the Dragons still led Southeast Whitfield, 10-0. In the bottom of the third, Antinozzi started it off with a lead off walk. Trey Payne drove in Antinozzi with an RBI single to make it 11-0. Sutton, drove in Payne after a grounder to the third baseman to make it 12-0. Tilley, reached on a walk, and Sam Hammontree reached on an error. A single from Colby Brooks drove in Tilley and Hammontree to make it 14-0. Evan Giddens, then reached on a walk. Will, then blooped one into shallow left field to score Brooks to make it 15-0. With the run rule in place, the Dragons took game 3, 15-0, and earned the sweep of Southeast Whitfield.
7-AAAA Baseball Standings:
Cedartown: 16-7 (10-2)
Heritage: 15-9 (8-4)
Pickens: 14-9 (9-6)
Central-Carroll: 15-8 (7-5)
Northwest Whitfield: 13-10 (7-5)
Ridgeland: 7-12 (3-9)
Southeast Whitfield: 3-23 (1-14)
The Dragons, will be out of region play next week as they will play four games with three different teams. First up, a home and home series with the Sonoraville Phoenix. The first game of the series will be at Sonoraville on Monday, April 11th. First pitch is set for 5:55 pm.
Dragons defeat Generals to begin region series
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports March 23, 2022
Jasper, Ga — Coming off of a series with Northwest Whitfield last week which saw the Dragons take two of three from the Bruins, Pickens began a series with the Heritage Generals on Tuesday, March 22nd. Heritage, swept the Southeast Whitfield Raiders two weeks ago, but did not participate in region play last week. The Generals, came into the game with a 9-5 overall record and 3-0 in 7-AAAA play. The Dragons, came into the game with an identical 9-5 overall record and a 4-2 record in 7-AAAA play. Off the strength of big time pitching performances by Connor Shouse and JP Nunn, the Dragons came away with a 5-1 win over the Generals in game 1 of the series.
Sophomore Ga Tech commit Connor Shouse, got the start for the Dragons in game 1 of the series. After giving up a lead off walk, Shouse was able to regroup as he would collect his first two strikeouts of the game and send us to the bottom of the first, still 0-0. In the bottom of the first, Shouse led off with a single to the right side. Shouse then took 2nd after a passed ball. He would be left at 2nd as the Generals were able to force a pop up to 3rd, a strikeout, and a ground out to send us to the top of the second, still scoreless.
In the top of the second, Heritage was again able to draw a lead off walk. After the walk, Shouse collected himself and struck out the side to send it to the bottom of the frame. In the bottom of the second, the Dragons were able to get on the board with a couple of runs. Tyler Payne worked the count full then drew a 1-out walk, Trey Payne then hit a single, James Tilley followed that up with a single of his own to load the bases. Colby Brooks, reached on a fielder’s choice as courtesy runner Cason Cannon and Trey Payne came around to score to make it 2-0. Shouse then drew a four pitch walk, and Trace Ledbetter followed with a single to again load the bases. Brooks came in to score after Anthony Antinozzi reached on an error to make it 3-0. The Generals, were able to force a fly out to center as we’d head to the top of the third with Pickens now leading Heritage, 3-0.
In the top of the third, Heritage, was able to force yet another lead off walk. Their third in three innings. The Dragons got a big double play after the walk as Ledbetter gathered the ground ball, stepped on first, then fired it to Tilley at second to complete the double play. Shouse then ended the top half of the third with his 6th strikeout of the game. In the bottom of the third, Cade Sutton led off by reaching on an error. After a beautiful bunt by Tyler Payne, Sutton found himself at 2nd. Trey Payne then reached on a 4 pitch walk to put runners at 1st and 2nd with just 1 out. Tilley, reached first on a fielder’s choice, which allowed Sutton to come in and score to make it 4-0 Dragons. Brooks, then nearly beat out a grounder to the third baseman as they’d go to the top of the fourth, with Pickens leading the Generals, 4-0.
In the top of the fourth, Shouse picked up his 7th strikeout of the game to begin the top half of the frame. While the pitches weren’t missing by much, Heritage was able to draw a walk for the 4th time to put a runner at 1st. After the walk, Shouse then collected his 8th strikeout for the second out of the inning. After the Generals picked up their first hit of the ball game, Shouse ended the top half of the fourth with his 9th strikeout to send us to the bottom of the inning. In the bottom of the fourth, Heritage got it’s first clean inning of the game as they were able to force two fly outs and a ground out to send it to the fifth with the Dragons ahead, 4-0.
In the top of the fifth, Shouse forced two ground outs and picked up his 10th strikeout in a clean top half of the frame to send it to the bottom of the inning. In the bottom of the fifth, Sutton reached on a 1-out single. Tyler Payne reached on a 4-pitch walk to put runners on 1st and 2nd with 1-out. The runners then moved up to 2nd and 3rd as Trey Payne grounded out to first. Tilley, drove in the courtesy runner Cannon to make it 5-0 Pickens. Tilley, advanced to 2nd on the throw home and the Dragons had runners at 2nd and 3rd with 2-outs. Heritage, got out of the inning after a fly out to right field and they’d go to the top of the sixth with Pickens now leading the Generals, 5-0.
In the top of the sixth, JP Nunn came on in relief of Shouse. Heritage picked up a run on 3 hits in the top of the inning to cut the Dragons lead to 5-1. In the bottom of the frame, Ledbetter reached on a 1-out single. Antinozzi reached on a walk to put runners on 1st and 2nd with 1-out. The Generals, forced to pop outs to send it to the seventh with the Dragons ahead, 5-1.
In the top of the seventh, Nunn worked around a lead off walk as he picked up his 2nd and 3rd strikeout and left that runner stranded to end the ball game and seal the win for the Dragons in game 1 of the series, 5-1.
Stats For The Dragons:
Connor Shouse: 1-3 with a single and a walk (5 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 10 K, 4 BB, 81 pitches)
Trace Ledbetter: 2-4 with 2 singles
Anthony Antinozzi: 1 walk
Cade Sutton: 1-4 with a single and 1 run scored
Tyler Payne: 2 walks, and 1 sacrifice bunt
Trey Payne: 1-2 with a single, a walk, and 1 run scored
James Tilley: 2-3 with 2 singles and 1 RBI
Colby Brooks: 2 RBI and 1 run scored
Cason Cannon: 2 runs scored
7-AAAA Baseball Standings:
Heritage: 9-6 (3-1)
Pickens: 10-5 (5-2)
Cedartown: 9-6 (5-2)
Northwest Whitfield: 8-7 (2-2)
Central-Carroll: 10-7 (3-4)
Ridgeland: 6-7 (2-4)
Southeast Whitfield: 3-14 (1-6)
The Dragons and Generals, will now turn their attention to the doubleheader that is set for Friday, March 25th at Heritage. The first game of the doubleheader has a first pitch time of 4:30 pm. The second game will follow shortly after the first game concludes.
Dragons sweep doubleheader to take region series from Lions
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports March 10, 2022
Jasper, Ga — After an exciting finish to the first game of the doubleheader, the two teams took a break to recharge and get ready for the second game. The second game, was just as exciting or even more exciting then the first game. The Dragons, again had to make a comeback as they swept the doubleheader and took the best of 3 series from the Lions with a 7-5 win in the nightcap.
The Dragons, were the visitors in the second game of the doubleheader so they had the first crack with the bats. Connor Shouse led off the game by drawing a walk. Trace Ledbetter advanced Shouse to third with a double. Shouse and Ledbetter would be brought in by consecutive productive outs by Trey Payne and Harlan Will. Going to the bottom of the first, Pickens led Central-Carroll, 2-0. In the bottom of the first, Dragons starter James Tilley needed just 6 pitches to get through the top of the Lions order as we headed to the second, with the Dragons leading, 2-0.
In the top of the second, Pickens would go down in order as the score remained 2-0. In the bottom of the frame, Tilley picked up his 1st and 2nd strikeout of the game, but the Lions were able to plate 4 runs on 4 hits to take the lead going to the third, 4-2.
In the top of the third, Shouse reached on an error with 1-out. He would eventually come around to score as the Dragons cut the Central-Carroll lead down to 4-3. In the bottom of the frame, Tilley had another quick half inning as he sat down the Lions on 9 pitches to send us to the fourth with Central-Carroll ahead, 4-3.
In the top of the fourth, Cade Sutton drew a 1-out walk and Colby Brooks legged out a 2-out single to put runners at first and second. The Lions were able to get out of that scoring threat, and send it to the bottom of the inning. In the bottom of the fourth, Tilley, picked up his 3rd strikeout, but Central-Carroll added a run to their total to extend their lead to 5-3 going to the fifth.
In the top of the fifth, both Ledbetter and Trey Payne reached on a pair of infield errors. Will then moved them over with a fantastic sacrifice bunt. Tyler Payne then also reached on an error. Ledbetter and Trey Payne would come around to score to tie things up at 5 going to the bottom of the fifth. In the bottom of the fifth, Tate Hales came on in relief of Tilley and he was impressive in his outing. Hales, kept the game tied at 5 and sent us to the sixth inning.
In the top of the sixth, the Dragons loaded the bases after Shouse reached on a fielder’s choice, Trey Payne drew a walk, and Will was hit with a pitch. The Lions, were able to get out of that potential sticky situation and keep the game tied at 5 going to the bottom of the frame. In the bottom of the sixth, JP Nunn, yes, the same JP Nunn who picked up the save in game 1 of the doubleheader, came on in relief of Hales in the bottom of the sixth. Nunn, was able to work around some at bats by the Lions and keep the game deadlocked at 5 going to the top of the seventh.
In the top of the seventh, Antinozzi and Sutton reached on back to back singles. Tilley, then reached after drawing a walk to load the bases. Shouse, put up a good battle after being down 0-2 to drive in Antinozzi with a sacrifice fly and give the Dragons a 6-5 lead. Ledbetter, then drew a walk to load the bases once again. Trey Payne followed that up by drawing a walk of his own to bring in Sutton to make it 7-5 Pickens going to the bottom of the inning.
In the bottom of the seventh, Nunn headed back to the mound to try to preserve the win and the series for the Dragons. The Lions, made things interesting as they loaded the bases with 2-outs. Nunn, was able to work around that and get a strikeout to seal the win for the Dragons, 7-5.
Stats for the Dragons:
Connor Shouse: 1 walk, 1 RBI, and 2 runs scored
Trace Ledbetter: 2-4 with a double, a single, 1 walk, and 2 runs scored
Trey Payne: 2 walks, 2 RBI, and 1 run scored
Harlan Will: 1 single, 1 hit by pitch, and 1 RBI
Anthony Antinozzi: 1-4 with 1 single and 1 run scored
Cade Sutton: 1-2 with 1 single, 2 walks, and 1 run scored
James Tilley: 1 walk
Colby Brooks: 2-4 with 2 singles
7-AAAA Baseball Standings:
Pickens: 7-3 (2-0)
Heritage: 6-3 (1-0)
Northwest Whitfield: 6-4 (0-0)
Ridgeland: 4-3 (0-0)
Cedartown: 4-4 (0-0)
Southeast Whitfield: 2-9 (0-1)
Central-Carroll: 7-5 (0-2)
The Dragons, will be back in action on Thursday, March 10th as they again host the Central-Carroll Lions for the third and final game of the series. With the series win already in their pocket, the Dragons will look to complete the sweep. First pitch set for 4 pm at Dunn Field at Pickens High School.
Dragons open region play against Lions
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports March 10, 2022
Jasper, Ga — It was time to start region play for the Pickens Dragons baseball team as they began a three game series with the Central-Carroll Lions on Wednesday, March 9th. Due to the rain that came in on Tuesday, the original schedule was adjusted a bit. The Tuesday game, was moved to Thursday, and the doubleheader that was originally scheduled to be played on Thursday at Central-Carroll, would now be played at Pickens. Coming into the game, the Dragons were 5-3 after a tough loss to Lumpkin County last week. The Lions, came in at 7-3, but were also coming off of a tough loss to Walnut Grove. Central-Carroll also came in ranked at #8 in the 4A poll. In a tightly played first game, the Dragons came away with a 3-2 win.
Connor Shouse took the mound for the first game of the doubleheader and he pitched very well for the Dragons. In the top of the first, the Lions collected a couple of hits, and a a run to take an early 1-0 lead. In the bottom of the inning, the Dragons went down in order and we’d head to the second, with Central-Carroll leading 1-0.
In the top of the second, Shouse picked up his 3rd and 4th strikeout of the game. The Lions were able to bring in another run to extend their lead to 2-0. In the bottom of the frame, the Dragons again went down in order. Going to the third, Central-Carroll held a 2-0 lead.
In the top of the third, Shouse picked up his 5th strikeout of the game and kept the Lions at bay to send it to the bottom of the inning. In the bottom half of the third, Pickens had their first base runners of the game as James Tilley drew a walk and Cade Sutton reached on a fielder’s choice. Central-Carroll worked around it and we’d head to the fourth with the Lions still ahead, 2-0.
In the top of the fourth, Shouse picked up his 6th and 7th strikeout of the game as he continued to shut down the Lions offense and keep the game within striking distance. In the bottom of the fourth, the Dragons worked some 2-out magic. Harlan Will reached on an error. Then, Tyler Payne was hit by a pitch. On a 2-2 count, Anthony Antinozzi laced one into the left center field gap. That double brought home courtesy runners Ethan Gemberling and Cason Cannon to tie the game up at 2. Tilley, was able to reach first after a dropped third strike. Antinozzi would advance to third and Tilley would advance to second after a wild pitch. The Lions were able to get out of the fourth with the game still tied at 2.
After giving up a walk to begin the top of the fifth, Shouse forced two ground outs and a fly out to send us to the bottom half of the frame. In the bottom of the fifth, Shouse reached third after a 1-out triple. Trace Ledbetter was then hit by a pitch. Trey Payne knocked one over to the right side of the diamond and brought in Shouse to give Pickens a 3-2 lead going to the sixth.
JP Nunn came on in relief of Shouse in the top of the sixth. Nunn, was able to keep the Lions off the scoreboard and sent us to the bottom of the inning.In the bottom of the sixth, The Dragons flew out three straight at bats to send us to the seventh with Pickens leading, 3-2.
Nunn, came back out for the top of the seventh to try and close the first game out. And close it out he did as the Dragons come back to take game 1 of the doubleheader and the series, 3-2.
Stats for the Dragons:
Connor Shouse: 1-3 with a triple and 1 run scored
Trace Ledbetter: 1 hit by pitch
Trey Payne: 1 RBI
Tyler Payne: 1 hit by pitch
Anthony Antinozzi: 1-3 with 1 double, and 1 RBI
Ethan Gemberling: 1 run scored
Cason Cannon: 1 run scored
Dragons hand Bobcats first loss of the season
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports February 25, 2022
Jasper, Ga — The 515 rivalry made its way to the baseball diamond on Thursday, February 24th as the Pickens Dragons welcomed the Gilmer Bobcats to Dunn Field for non-region action. This, was the first game between the two teams as they will play in Ellijay next week, This time next year, these two teams will be in the same region again. The Dragons, came into this game at 2-0 after a home and home sweep against Dawson. The Bobcats, came in with a 3-0 record on the early season. The Dragons, got runs from the 2nd inning to the 6th inning as they took the first game against the Bobcats, 10-5.
J.P. Nunn took the mound to start for the Dragons and he got off to a quick start in the top of the first getting two quick outs. The Bobcats, were able to find some two out magic as Ethan McCollum and Grant Cochran reached base. The starting pitcher for Gilmer, Seth Darling, brought both McCollum and Cochran home on a double to give the Bobcats a 2-0 lead going to the bottom of the first. In the bottom of the first, the Dragons tried some two out magic of their own as Anthony Antinozzi got on with a two out double. The Bobcats were able to get out of the first inning with no damage done and still holding a 2-0 lead.
In the top of the second, Nunn settled down and got the Bobcats in order in a quick 1-2-3 top half of the frame. In the bottom of the second, The Dragons were able to tie things up at 2 a piece after James Tilley was hit by a pitch, and Colby Brooks drew a walk. Both scored after several throwing errors were made by the Bobcats. Going to the top of the third, we were tied at 2.
In the top of the third, Nunn again got the first two outs of the inning rather quickly. McCollum, got on again, this time via a two out single. Cochran then drew a walk as Gilmer was looking to retake the lead. Nunn, was able to rally and get a strikeout to send us to the bottom of the frame still tied at 2. In the bottom of the third, things got going for the Dragons after Trace Ledbetter reached base with one out. Antinozzi, hit one into the gap and brought Ledbetter home with a triple. Antinozzi then scored on an errant throw to make it 4-2 Pickens. After a double by Harlan Will, Trey Payne was able to bring him home with an RBI single. Tilley, then reached first after drawing a walk. Brooks, looked to keep the bottom of the third going, but would fly out to center to send us to the top of the fourth with the Dragons ahead, 5-2.
In the top of the fourth, the Bobcats clawed their way back into the game as Noah Gutillo drew a 1-out walk, Carter Jones followed that up with a 1-out single. Trey Payne, who came on in relief of Nunn, got a strikeout for the 2nd out of the frame. Branson Teague, got Gilmer within a run after a 2 RBI double to make it 5-4. Austin Zabala followed that up with a walk to put runners on 1st and 3rd as Teague was running on the 3-2 count. With McCollum up, Tyler Payne was able to throw out Zabala who couldn’t get back to first in time. Going to the bottom of the fourth, Pickens led Gilmer, 5-4. In the bottom of the fourth, Connor Shouse was able to draw a 1-out walk. After Ledbetter popped up to the second baseman, Antinozzi continued his big night with his third extra base hit of the game as he brought in Shouse with an RBI double to make it 6-4. Will followed that up with an RBI single to bring in Antinozzi to make it 7-4 Dragons going to the fifth.
In the top of the fifth, McCollum led off with a single. After Cochran popped out to third baseman Evan Giddens, Darling reached on a fielders choice. Tate Hales, who came on in relief of Trey Payne, got Billy Goswick to ground out to Giddens to end the top half of the fifth. In the bottom of the fifth, the Dragons looked to add to their three run lead. Trey Payne got things going with a lead off single. Tilley followed that by drawing another walk. Brooks, brought in Trey Payne with an RBI single to make it 8-4. After Giddens drew a walk to load the bases, Shouse was hit by a pitch to bring in Tilley to make it 9-4 Pickens going to the sixth.
In the top of the sixth, Hales continued a good outing as he got the Bobcats in order with three fly outs to send us to the bottom of the inning. In the bottom half of the sixth, Tyler and Trey Payne drew back to back 1-out walks. Tilley, was then able to drive in a run with an RBI double to make it 10-4 Dragons. Gilmer was able to get out of a jam as Pickens left the bases loaded as we’d head to the top of the seventh with the Dragons leading the Bobcats, 10-4.
Shouse took the mound for the Dragons in the top of the seventh to try to shut this one down. Teague, was hit by a pitch, then Zabala followed it up with a single. Cochran, brought home Teague on a 1-out single to make it 10-5 Pickens. After a lengthy discussion by the umpires with themselves and both head coaches for Pickens and Gilmer, it was determined that Cochran would be called out. Reason being, the Dragons were able to pull off a hidden ball trick. Shouse, was able to collect himself after a bit of a delay, and strikeout Darling for the final out. The final from Jasper, Pickens 10 Gilmer 5.
Stats For Gilmer:
Branson Teague: 1-3 with a double, 1 hit by pitch, 2 RBI and 1 run scored
Austin Zabala: 1-3 with a walk and a single
Ethan McCollum: 2-3 with 2 singles, 1 walk, and 1 run scored
Greg Cochran: 1 single, 1 walk, 1 RBI, and 1 run scored
Seth Darling: 1-4 with 1 double and 2 RBI
Noah Gutillo: 1 walk and 1 run scored
Carter Jones: 1-3 with 1 single and 1 run scored
Stats For Pickens:
Connor Shouse: 1 walk, 1 hit by pitch, 1 RBI, and 1 run scored
Trace Ledbetter: 1-4 with a single and 1 run scored
Anthony Antinozzi: 3-4 with 2 doubles, 1 triple, 2 RBI, and 2 runs scored
Harlan Will: 2-4 with 1 double, 1 single, 1 RBI, and 1 run scored
Tyler Payne: 1 walk
Trey Payne: 2-3 with 2 singles, 1 walk, 1 RBI, and 1 run scored
James Tilley: 1-1 with 1 double, 2 walks, 1 hit by pitch, 1 RBI, and 2 runs scored
Colby Brooks: 1-3 with 1 single, 1 walk, 1 RBI, and 1 run scored
Evan Giddens: 2 walks
The Dragons, now move to 3-0 on the season. They will now head down to Baseball at the Beach for a Saturday double header as they take on both North Springs and Long County. Baseball at the Beach is played at Edo Miller Park in Brunswick Georgia. The first game of the day for the Dragons will be against North Springs at 10 am. After playing that one and getting some lunch, the Dragons will then play Long County at 4 pm.
Dragons baseball defeats Dawson in home opener
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports February 17, 2022
Jasper, Ga — On Wednesday, February 16th the Pickens Dragons baseball team hosted the Dawson Tigers for their 2022 home opener. These two teams played on Tuesday, February 15th in Dawsonville, with the Dragons coming away with a 12-7 win. This game, was originally scheduled for Thursday, but with the weather coming in, they moved the game up to Wednesday. It was a tightly played ball game at Dunn Field as the home team came away with the win, 6-5.
In the top of the first inning, Dragons starter Trey Payne was able to work around a hit and a walk while also striking out two batters to send us to the bottom of the inning scoreless. Sophomore Georgia Tech Baseball commit Connor Shouse, got things going early for the Dragons in the bottom of the first with a single. He then advanced to second after a passed ball. Trace Ledbetter brought him in with an RBI double to deep right field to give Pickens the 1-0 lead going to the top of the second.
In the second inning, Trey Payne again worked around a little trouble as he kept the Tigers scoreless and sent us to the bottom of the second. Pickens, threatened to add to their lead in the bottom of the frame with runners at second and third, but Dawson was able to escape the danger and send us to the top of the third.
In the top of the third, the Tigers broke through and plated two runs with some timely hits to take the lead for the first time, 2-1. The lead would not last long however as the Dragons fired back in the bottom of the third. Ledbetter got on with a 1-out single, then Anthony Antinozzi drew a walk, then Harlan Will got hit by a pitch, then Tyler Payne drove in Ledbetter and Antinozzi with a 2 RBI double to make it 3-2 Pickens going to the top of the fourth.
The Tigers, tried to answer back in the top of the fourth, but the Dragons were able to keep them at bay. In the bottom of the inning, Pickens extended it’s lead as Colby Brooks started the half inning with a single, Shouse drew a walk, followed by Ledbetter also drawing a walk. Will then reached on an error with 2 outs to bring in Brooks. A walk drawn by Tyler Payne brought in Shouse to make it 5-2 Dragons going to the top of the fifth.
In the top of the fifth, the Tigers inched a little closer as they plated a run to make it 5-3. The Dragons went down in order in the bottom of the fifth inning to send us to the top of the sixth with Pickens still leading Dawson, 5-3.
In the top of the sixth, the Tigers took advantage of a couple of miscues and some clutch hitting to score two runs and tie the game up a 5 a piece. Speaking of clutch, in the bottom of the sixth, the Dragons offense definitely was. Shouse led off by drawing a walk on a full count. Ledbetter got on with a single. After Antinozzi laid down a nice sacrifice bunt to move the runners over the second and third, Will was intentionally walked to load the bases with one out. Tyler Payne, was able to bring Shouse in after he hit a grounder to the right side of the infield to give the Dragons a 6-5 lead going to the top of the seventh.
In the top of the seventh, Shouse, who came on in relief of Tate Hales in the top of the sixth, shut the Tigers down by striking out the side and preserving the 2-0 win for Pickens.
Stats For The Dragons:
Connor Shouse: 1-2 with a single, 2 walks, & 3 runs scored
Trace Ledbetter: 3-4 with a double, 2 singles, 1 RBI, & 1 run scored
Anthony Antinozzi: 1 walk, 1 sacrifice bunt, & 1 run scored
Harlan Will: 1 hit by pitch & 1 walk
Tyler Payne: 1-3 with 1 double, 1 walk, & 3 RBI
Trey Payne: 1-3 with a single
Colby Brooks: 1-3 with a single & 1 run scored
The Dragons, now move to 2-0 early on in the 2022 season after the home and home sweep of the Dawson Tigers. Next year, that match up will be a region match up. Speaking of games that will be region games next year, the Gilmer Bobcats will come to Jasper on Thursday, February 24th as they renew their rivalry on the diamond. First pitch set for 5 pm.
Dragons pick up road region win against Ridgeland
PHS Football, Team FYN Sports October 9, 2021
Rossville, Ga — The Pickens Dragons took to the road on Friday, October 8th to take on the Ridgeland Panthers in 7-AAAA play. The Dragons, were looking to bounce back after a tough game against Cedartown last week. The Panthers, have had a difficult start to the season, but were back home for the Homecoming. Pickens, snagged four first half interceptions and got the offense going in route to a 45-8 win.
The first quarter saw the Panthers get the ball first to begin the game. It didn’t take long for the Dragons to put points on the board as Anthony Antinozzi picked off the pass attempt, and took it all the way for the touchdown. With 11:15 left in the first quarter, Pickens led Ridgeland, 7-0. The Panthers, bounced back on their next possession as they used a long run to help set up a 1-yd touchdown run. Ridgeland then converted a 2-point conversion to take the lead, 8-7, with 9:03 left in the first quarter. The Dragons, then took the field for the first time on offense, looking to regain the lead. Regain the lead is exactly what they did as Sam Streicher found Kadyn Hampton in the corner of the end zone for the 20-yd touchdown pass. The PAT was good, and Pickens reclaimed the lead, 14-8, with 5:43 left in the first quarter. The Dragons, added to their lead as Devin Hand took the snap from behind center on 4th down and went 45-yds for the touchdown. Going to the second quarter, Pickens led the Panthers, 21-8.
Devin Hand looking for running room
The second quarter didn’t see too much scoring, but it did see the Dragons force a couple more turnovers. The lone points came from a 46-yd field goal by Jose Sanchez to give Pickens a 24-8 lead over Ridgeland at the half.
Jose Sanchez nails a 46-yd field goal
In the third quarter, both teams were finding it hard to get some consistency going with their possessions. With nothing doing for either side in the third, the Dragons continued to lead the Panthers, 24-8.
The Dragon defense forced 6 turnovers on the night
The fourth quarter saw the Dragon offense come to life. The first score of the quarter came after Streicher found a wide open Marcus Pike, who then made one man miss to get into the end zone. All together the play covered 40-yds. The PAT was good by Juan Sanchez and Pickens extended it’s lead to 31-8. At the 6:35 mark of the fourth, Streicher found Hand on the screen pass and Hand took it 65-yds for the score. The Dragons would then force the Panthers to punt deep in their own territory on their next possession. After being close several times, Pickens finally got in and blocked the punt attempt. A play later, Miguel Salto took the hand off and scored from 11-yds out. Your final from Rossville, Pickens 45 Ridgeland 8.
7-AAAA Region Standings:
Cedartown: 5-1 (2-0)
Heritage: 4-1 (2-0)
Pickens: 4-2 (1-1)
Northwest Whitfield: 3-3 (1-1)
Central-Carroll: 3-4 (0-2)
Ridgeland: 1-6 (0-2)
Southeast Whitfield: 1-7
The Dragons, will be back home next Friday as they welcome the Lions of Central-Carroll in what will be a critical game in 7-AAAA. These two teams did not get to play one another last year due to Covid issues. It will also be Senior Night for Pickens as it is the final home game of the regular season next Friday night. Kickoff is set for 7:30 pm.
Dragons soar over Eagles in non-region play
PHS Football, Team FYN Sports September 11, 2021
Rome, Ga — It was a beautiful day for high school football on Friday, September 10th as the Pickens Dragons made the long trip over to Rome to take on the 2A Coosa Eagles in non-region action. These two teams have a brief history with one another having only played 5 times. The Dragons, coming into this one, had won the previous three meetings. Pickens, looked to bounce back after a tough loss last week to White County. Coosa, came in looking for their first win of the season after games against Trion and Armuchee. Behind a strong defensive effort, that included five takeaway’s, Pickens came away with a 34-10 win.
The opening kickoff saw the first turnover as the game. As Coosa was returning the kick, the Dragons forced a fumble and recovered it. Pickens cashed in on that turnover as Sam Striecher found Devin Hand in the corner of the end zone for the touchdown. Hand went up and over the defender to catch the pass. The PAT was blocked and with 10:44 left in the first quarter, the Dragons led the Eagles, 6-0. Pickens, added to their lead later on in the quarter as Hand found the end zone again. Hand, took the snap under center and got in from 2-yds out. The PAT was good this time around and the Dragons took a 13-0 lead into the second quarter.
Sam Streicher finds Devin Hand in the end zone
Both teams had shots in the second quarter, but were unable to come up with anything. Coosa, picked up their first points of the game as they hit a 27-yd field goal. With 5:13 left in the first half, Pickens now led the Eagles, 13-3. Just prior to halftime, Streicher found his target Marcus Pike, for a 13-yd touchdown. The PAT was good, and the Dragons took a 20-3 lead into the break.
The Dragons defense making the tackle
The Dragons wasted no time adding to their lead as they began the third quarter. After perfectly fielding the onside kick attempt, Pickens made quick work of their first possession in the second half. Streicher, hit Hand on the screen play, and Hand did the rest as he took it 55-yds for the touchdown. The PAT was once again successful, and the Dragons held a 27-3 advantage. That would be all the scoring that took place during the third quarter, and we’d head to the fourth quarter with Pickens ahead, 27-3.
Dragons looking to run the ball
Seconds into the fourth quarter starting, Anthony Antinozzi picked off an Eagle pass attempt and took it all the way for a Dragon touchdown. The PAT was true and Pickens held a 34-3 lead with 11:51 left in the ball game. Coosa, got into the end zone with a 39-yd touchdown run. Your final score from Coosa High School, Pickens 34 Coosa 10.
With the win, the Dragons now move to 2-1 on the season. Pickens, will be back home next week as they welcome the Union County Panthers to Jasper. It’ll be the 12th all-time meeting between these two schools. This will be the final non-region game for the Dragons before 7-AAAA play begins on October 1st.
Dragons shut out Rebels on Senior Night
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports April 17, 2021
Pickens County, Ga — It was a night for celebration and to recognize as the Pickens Dragons (13-12, 5-10) welcomed the Fannin Rebels (6-19, 3-12) to Dunn Field on Friday, April, 16th for the second game of their home and home series. Before the game, Seniors Seth Densmore, Drake Sutton, Hunter White, and Jarod Whitmore were honored for their contributions to Dragons baseball over the years. The moms of the players then threw out a ceremonial first pitch to their sons. As for the game, the Dragons were able to pick up the sweep over the Rebels with a 9-0 win.
In the top of the 1st, Brady Martin was hit with a pitch and advanced to 2nd after a successful steal attempt. Sutton, the starter for the Dragons, collected his first strikeout of the game and induced a fly out to send it to the bottom of the 1st. In the bottom of the 1st, Trace Ledbetter reached 1st base after being hit by a pitch. Densmore, then followed with a 2-out double. Rebel starter, Wyatt Rogers, got a fly out for the 3rd out to send us to the 2nd, tied at 0.
In the top half of the 2nd, Rebels designated hitter Jake Kuna, reached on an error. Kuna, would be left stranded at 2nd as Sutton picked up his 3rd strikeout of the game to send us to the bottom of the 2nd. Pickens, broke through in the bottom half of the 2nd. Sutton got things going with a 1-out double. Harlan Will then reached 1st on a fielder’s choice. Colby Brooks, who courtesy ran for Sutton, scored on a passed ball to make it 1-0 Dragons. James Tilley, then reached on an error. Connor Shouse, cleared the bases as he belted a 3-run home run, the first of the season for the freshman, to make it 4-0. After a strikeout, Ledbetter hit a single, then scored on an RBI double from Densmore to make it 5-0 Dragons going to the top of the 3rd.
In the top of the 3rd, Martin drew a 2-out walk. Martin, would be left at 2nd after Sutton collected his 5th strikeout of the game. In the bottom of the frame, Sutton and Will were hit by pitches on back to back at bats with 1-out. Shouse, drove in courtesy runners Brooks and Ethan Gemberling with a 2-RBI double to make it 7-0. White, followed that up with an RBI single to bring in Shouse. Going to the 4th, the Dragons led the Rebels, 8-0.
The top of the 4th saw Fannin threaten with another scoring chance to try to cut the Pickens lead down. Logan Hughes and Sawyer Moreland reached with back to back singles with 1-out. After a ground out advanced the runners to 2nd and 3rd, Sutton forced a grounder to 1st to end the top half of the 4th. In the bottom of the 4th, Densmore led off by drawing a walk. Logan Shirley came in to pitch run for Densmore. After advancing to 2nd after Anthony Antinozzi was hit by a pitch, and to 3rd after a steal attempt, Shirley came in to score after Sutton reached 1st on a fielder’s choice to make it 9-0.
In the 5th, Densmore came on in relief of Sutton who pitched extremely well through 4 innings of work for the Dragons. Martin, tried to get a rally going for the Rebels as he reached base with a 2-out double. Densmore, got out of the top of the 5th by collecting his 2nd strikeout of the inning to send us to the bottom of the frame. In the bottom of the 5th, the Rebels right fielder Jason Pearson, who came on in relief in the bottom of the 4th, got the first 1-2-3 inning of the game in the bottom of the 5th to send us to the 6th, Dragons ahead, 9-0.
In the top of the 6th, Moreland reached base after a 2-out walk. A nice play over at 3rd base by Sutton on a dribbler by Kuna ended the top half of the inning and sent us to the bottom of the frame. Pearson, again fired another 1-2-3 inning as he collected his first two strikeouts to send us to the 7th.
In the top of the 7th, Rogers, reached on a 1-out single. Pearson, was then hit by a pitch. With 2 outs, Densmore was able to induce a grounder to third for the 3rd out and the Dragons took this one, 9-0.
Dragons Stats:
Connor Shouse: 2-4 with a home run, a double, 4 RBI, and 2 runs scored
Hunter White: 1-4 with a single, and 1 RBI
Trace Ledbetter: 1-3 with a hit by pitch, a single, and 1 run scored
Seth Densmore: 2-3 with 2 doubles, 1 walk, and 1 RBI & 3 IP, 3 K, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 1 HBP
Anthony Antinozzi: 1 hit by pitch
Drake Sutton: 1-3 with a double, a hit by pitch, and 1 RBI & 4 IP, 5 K, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 1 HBP, 76 pitches
Harlan Will: 1 hit by pitch
James Tilley: 1 walk, and 1 run scored
Colby Brooks: 2 runs scored
Ethan Gemberling: 2 runs scored
Logan Shirley: 1 run scored
Rebels Stats:
Jason Pearson: 1 hit by pitch
Brady Martin: 1-2 with a hit by pitch, 1 walk, and 1 double
Logan Hughes: 1-3 with a single
Sawyer Moreland: 1-2 with a single, and a walk
Wyatt Rogers: 1-3 with a single
Dragons pick up road win against Fannin
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports April 14, 2021
Fannin County, Ga — It was a 515 Tuesday as the Pickens Dragons (12-12, 5-10) headed north to Blue Ridge to take on the Fannin Rebels (6-17, 3-11) for a non-region ball game. The Dragons and Rebels bot came into the game looking to get back in the win column after both dropped a series last week. In a game that was very much a pitchers duel for the majority of it, the Dragons got 3 runs in the final 3 innings to pick up a 5-2 win.
In the top of the 1st, Hunter White got things going by reaching on an error. Seth Densmore then drew a 2-out walk. Jarod Whitmore, drove in White with a single to make it 1-0 Dragons. Anthony Antinozzi, then followed by getting hit with a pitch to load the bases. Rebels starter Logan Hughes, got out of the jam to keep the score 1-0 going to the bottom of the frame. In the bottom of the 1st, the Rebels got back to back hits from Brady Martin and Bradley Holloway.Dragons starter JP Nunn, got out of a jam of his own as he left Bradley and Martin stranded at 2nd and 3rd to send us to the 2nd, Pickens ahead, 1-0.
In the top of the 2nd, Tyler Payne led off by getting hit with a pitch. The Rebels, got a big lift when they picked up a strikeout/pick off double play. With 2 outs, Connor Shouse drew a walk. Shouse would be left stranded at 1st as we’d head to the bottom of the 2nd, still 1-0 Dragons. In the bottom of the frame, Carter Mann led off with a single. Landon Norton, then followed by drawing a walk. After back to back strikeouts by Nunn, Jason Pearson got hit by a pitch to load the bases full of Rebels. Nunn, got out of a jam for the 2nd straight inning to keep the Dragons ahead going to the 3rd, 1-0.
Densmore got the top of the 3rd going for Pickens after he reached on an error. Antinozzi, drew a 2-out walk, but that would be all in the top half of the 3rd for the Dragons. In the bottom half of the 3rd, Nunn picked up his 4th strikeout of the game as he worked the first 1-2-3 inning for either side. Going to the 4th, Pickens still led the Rebels, 1-0.
In the top of the 4th, James Tilley drew a 1-out walk to reach base. White, brought Tilley home with a 2-out double to make it 2-0 Dragons. Nunn, continued his impressive outing by again working a 1-2-3 inning in the bottom of the 4th. Going to the 5th, the Dragons held a 2-0 advantage.
Whitmore picked up his 2nd hit of the game with 1-out in the top of the 5th. Antinozzi and Drake Sutton then followed by drawing back to back walks to load the bases. With 2 outs, Tilley drew a walk to bring in Whitmore. Shouse, followed by drawing the 4th walk of the inning to bring in Antinozzi. Going to the bottom of the 5th, the Dragons now led the Rebels, 4-0. In the bottom of the 5th, Fannin looked to get things going offensively. Pearson, reached with a 1-out double. Martin, followed with a single. Holloway, drove in Pearson with an RBI single. Martin, was thrown out at home trying to come in to score. Nunn then forced a ground out to end the 5th and send us to the top of the 6th with the Dragons up, 4-1.
The top of the 6th saw the Rebels collect their first 1-2-3 inning of the game to keep the score at 4-1. In the bottom of the 6th, Tyler Fox reached after drawing a 1-out walk. Norton, then followed with a single. After a strikeout, Luke Bright drew a walk. Pearson, then brought in Fox with an RBI single. On the same play, the Dragons threw out a runner for the final out of the frame. Going to the top of the 7th, Pickens led Fannin, 4-2.
In the top of the 7th, Antinozzi led off with a walk. Sutton then moved him over to 2nd with a sacrifice bunt. Payne then drew a walk. Tilley, kept the line moving by reaching on an error. Shouse, brought in Antinozzi after drawing his 3rd walk of the game. After a strikeout and a force out, we’d head to the bottom of the 7th with the Dragons up, 5-2. In the bottom of the 7th, Holloway picked up a 1-out single. Densmore, was able to get a 6-4-3 double play from his defense and the Dragons picked up the win, 5-2.
Dragons Stats:
Connor Shouse: 3 walks and 2 RBI
Hunter White: 1-5 with a double, 1 run scored, and 1 RBI
Seth Densmore: 1 walk
Jarod Whitmore: 2-4 with 1 run scored
Anthony Antinozzi: 1 hit by pitch, 3 walks, and 2 runs scored
Drake Sutton: 1 walk
Tyler Payne: 1 hit by pitch, and 1 walk
James Tilley: 2 walks, 1 RBI, and 1 run scored
JP Nunn: 5 IP, 6 H, 4 K, 1 BB, 1 HBP, 1 R, 1 ER, 68 pitches
Rebels Stats:
Jason Pearson: 2-3 with a single, a double, 1 hit by pitch, 1 RBI, and 1 run scored
Brady Martin: 2-4 with 2 singles
Bradley Holloway: 3-4 with 3 singles, and 1 RBI
Carter Mann: 1-2 with a single
Tyler Fox: 1 walk, and 1 run scored
Landon Norton: 1 walk and 1 single
Luke Bright: 1 walk
These same two teams will meet in Jasper on Friday in the finale of their home and home series. First pitch set for 5:30 pm.
Dragons open series with win over Southeast Whitfield
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports April 7, 2021
Pickens County, Ga — The Pickens Dragons (11-10, 5-8), hosted the Southeast Whitfield Raiders (8-13, 2-11) in a crucial game 1 of a 3-game set. Coming into the series, the Dragons were in 5th place in 7-AAAA. The Raiders, came in 7th in 7-AAAA. The bats for the Dragons came to life and led them to a 14-4 win in 5 innings.
In the top of the 1st, the Raiders got on the board first with a solo home run. Going to the bottom of the 1st, Southeast Whitfield led the Dragons, 1-0. In the bottom of the 1st, Hunter White got things going with a 1-out single. Trace Ledbetter then followed by getting hit with a pitch. After White and Ledbetter advanced to 3rd and 2nd respectively after a double steal, Seth Densmore drove in White to tie the game at 1 a piece. Jarod Whitmore, then hit a 2-out single, and advanced to 2nd on the throw attempt to home. Anthony Antinozzi, drove in both Ledbetter and Whitmore to make it 3-1 Dragons. Antinozzi, would come around to score after Harlan Will reached on an error. Parker Rhodes, drove in Colby Brooks, who was courtesy running for Will to make it 5-1 Dragons going to the 2nd.
The Raiders, would pick up 2 hits off of Dragon starter JP Nunn, but that would be all as Nunn picked off a runner at 2nd to end the top half of the 2nd inning. In the bottom half of the frame, the Dragons added to their lead after Whitmore drove in White to make it 6-1 Pickens going to the top of the 3rd.
With nothing doing for either side in the 3rd inning, we’ll move along to the 4th. In the top of the 4th, Southeast Whitfield plated a run to make it 6-2. In the bottom of the 4th, Connor Shouse got things going with a lead off triple. White, continued his hot hitting as he drove in Shouse with an RBI single to make it 7-2. After advancing to 2nd on a passed ball, White would move to 3rd after a single from Ledbetter. With 1-out, Densmore stepped up and sent a lined shot over the left field wall for a 2-run home run to make it 9-2. Whitmore, followed by drawing a walk. Will, then reached on an error for the second time. Rhodes, continued his good play over the last week and drove Whitmore home with an RBI single to make it 10-2 Pickens, going to the 5th.
In the top of the 5th, the Raiders scored twice to cut the Dragons lead to 10-4. In the bottom of the 5th, White reached base for a fourth time by drawing a 1-out walk. Ledbetter and Densmore followed by getting hit by a pitch to load the bases. Antinozzi, drew a 2-out walk to bring in White to make it 11-4. Will, then drew a walk as well to bring in Ledbetter. Rhodes, blooped one into shallow right center to score Matt Satterfield, who pitch ran for Densmore, and Antinozzi to give the Dragons a 14-4 win over the Raiders in 5 innings.
Dragons Stats:
Connor Shouse: 1-4 with a triple and 1 run scored
Hunter White: 3-3 with 3 singles, 1 walk, 1 RBI, and 4 runs scored
Trace Ledbetter: 1-2 with a single, 2 hit by pitch, and 2 runs scored
Seth Densmore: 1-2 with a home run, 1 hit by pitch, 3 RBI, and 1 run scored
Jarod Whitmore: 2-3 with 2 singles, 1 walk, 1 RBI, and 2 runs scored
Anthony Antinozzi: 1-3 with a single, 1 walk, 3 RBI, and 2 runs scored
Harlan Will: 1 walk and 1 RBI
Parker Rhodes: 3-4 with 3 singles, and 3 RBI
Colby Brooks: 1 run scored
Matt Satterfield: 1 run scored
With the win, the Dragons are now tied in the win column with the current 4th place team in 7-AAAA, Central-Carroll, who fell in game 1 of their series with Ridgeland, 14-0. Pickens, will head to Southeast Whitfield on Friday, April 9th for a doubleheader with the Raiders. First pitch of the first game of that twin bill is set for 5 :30 pm.
Chances aplenty in game 3 between Cedartown and Pickens
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports April 3, 2021
Pickens County, Ga — In between games 2 and 3, the Pickens Dragons honored two brave women and their families for their Pink Out night. Jamie Stone, Debbie Dart, and their families were recognized. One family member each got to throw out a ceremonial first pitch. Game 3, saw plenty of opportunities for both the Dragons and Cedartown Bulldogs. In the end, the Bulldogs took game 3, 10-4.
In the top of the 1st, the Bulldogs again got on the board early with a 1-0 lead. In the bottom of the inning, Hunter White drew a 2-out walk, but that would be all as we’d head to the top of the 2nd, Cedartown leading Pickens, 1-0.
The Dragons retired the Bulldogs on 12 pitches in the top half of the 2nd to keep it 1-0. In the bottom half of the frame, Jarod Whitmore got hit by a pitch with 1-out. Parker Rhodes then drew a 2-out walk. Pickens, would be unable to tie things up as Whitmore was left stranded at 3rd as we went to the top of the 3rd, still 1-0 Bulldogs.
In the top of the 3rd, Cedartown plated 2 runs to extend their lead over the Dragons t0 3-0. In the bottom of the 3rd, Anthony Antinozzi drew a 2-out walk. His courtesy runner, Colby Brooks, would make it all the way to 3rd base, but would be left stranded to end the 3rd inning and send us to the 4th, Bulldogs ahead, 3-0.
After nothing doing for the Bulldogs in the top half of the 4th, the Dragons again had another chance to cut into the lead as Drake Sutton and Whitmore drew back to back walks with 1-out. Back to back fly outs however ended the inning for Pickens as we’d go to the top of the 5th, Cedartown leading, 3-0.
In the top of the 5th, the Bulldogs added 2 runs to their total as they increased their lead to 5-0 going to the bottom of the frame. Pickens, went quietly in the bottom of the 5th and we’d head t0 the 6th with the Bulldogs up, 5-0.
In the top of the 6th, Cedartown plated a run to make it 6-0. In the bottom of the inning, let’s just say, the Dragons got their steps in. Pickens drew 6 walks, and 1 hit batsman to plate 4 runs and cut the Bulldog lead to 6-4, going to the 7th.
In the top of the 7th, the Bulldogs scored 4 runs of their own to extend their lead out to 10-4. In the bottom of the 7th, the Dragons got back to back hits from Densmore and Sutton. Those two hits, were the first two hits of the ball game for Pickens. Courtesy runner Brooks and Sutton, were left stranded a 3rd and 2nd respectively as Cedartown forced a pop out, and then got back to back strikeouts to get the win, 10-4.
Dragons Stats:
Harlan Will: 1 hit by pitch, & 1 RBI
Anthony Antinozzi: 1 walk
Hunter White: 2 walks, & 1 run scored
Seth Densmore: 1-3 with a single & 1 walk
Drake Sutton: 1-3 with a single & 1 walk
Jarod Whitmore: 1 hit by pitch, 2 walks, & 1 run scored
Trace Ledbetter: 1 walk, 1 RBI, & 1 run scored
Parker Rhodes: 2 walks, & 1 RBI
James Tilley: 1 walk, & 1 RBI
7-AAAA Baseball Standings:
Heritage: 15-4 (8-1)
Northwest Whitfield: 17-4 (7-2)
Cedartown: 12-7 (9-3)
Central-Carroll: 11-7 (5-4)
Pickens: 10-10 (4-8)
Southeast Whitfield: 8-12 (2-10)
Ridgeland: 3-12 (1-8)
Pickens, will be back home on Tuesday, April 6th as they welcome the Southeast Whitfield Raiders to Jasper for the start of a 3-game set. First pitch for game 1 is set for 5:30 pm.
Nunn shuts door on Bulldogs as Dragons take game 2
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports April 3, 2021
Pickens County, Ga — It was Pink Out Friday on April 2nd as the Pickens Dragons (10-9, 4-7) welcomed the Cedartown Bulldogs (11-7, 8-3) to Jasper for games 2 and 3 of their 7-AAAA 3-game set. The Dragons, wore pink jerseys as part of recognizing breast cancer awareness. In game 1 of the series on Tuesday, the Bulldogs came away with the win, 12-5. In a game where both teams had multiple run innings, the Dragons were able to hold on to get a 10-8 win in game two.
In the top of the 1st, the Bulldogs scored 2 runs to take an early 2-0 lead. In the bottom of the inning, the Dragons got a 2-out single by Hunter White, but that would be all as we’d head to the 2nd, Cedartown ahead, 2-0.
In the top of the 2nd, the Bulldogs added to their lead as they would plate one run to make it 3-0. In the bottom of the frame, Jarod Whitmore drew a 1-out walk. Trace Ledbetter then followed with a single. Parker Rhodes then drew a walk to load the bases. Starting pitcher James Tilley, would then be hit in the left arm to bring home Whitmore. Connor Shouse, brought in Ledbetter to make it 3-2. Anthony Antinozzi then brought in Rhodes as Antinozzi reached on an error. Going to the top of the 3rd, the ball game was knotted up at 3 a piece.
The tie would not last very long as the Bulldogs retook the lead in the top of the 3rd by scoring 1 run. Going to the bottom half of the inning, it was now 4-3 Cedartown. Pickens, began the bottom of the 3rd with back to back walks drawn by Seth Densmore and Drake Sutton. Unfortunately for the Dragons, the Bulldogs got a strikeout, and double play to end the home half of the 3rd, and send us to the 4th with Cedartown ahead, 4-3.
The Bulldogs, were limited to just 1 hit in the top of the 4th as the score remained 4-3. In the bottom of the 4th, the Dragons broke through, scoring 6 runs on 4 hits. Pickens got an RBI from Antinozzi, Whitmore, and 2 RBI from Rhodes and White during the rally as the Dragons to their first lead of the game, 9-4.
We move to the top of the 6th. Cedartown, was able to cut the Dragons lead down to 9-8 after plating 4 runs in the top half of the frame. In the bottom of the 6th, Ledbetter led off with a single to get it started. Ledbetter, would eventually come around to score to give Pickens an all important insurance run. Going to the top of the 7th, the Dragons held a 10-8 lead over the Bulldogs.
In the top of the 7th, JP Nunn, who came on in relief in the top of the 6th, shut down any comeback chances as the Dragons picked up the win in game 2, 10-8.
Dragons Stats:
Connor Shouse: 1-5 with a single, 1 RBI, & 1 run scored
Anthony Antinozzi: 2 RBI
Hunter White: 2-4 with 2 singles, 2 RBI, & 1 run scored
Seth Densmore: 1-3 with a single, & a walk
Drake Sutton: 1-2 with a single, 2 walks, & 1 run scored
Jarod Whitmore: 2 hit by pitch, 1 RBI, & 2 runs scored
Trace Ledbetter: 2-4 with 2 singles, & 2 runs scored
Parker Rhodes: 1 single, 2 walks, 2 RBI, & 2 runs scored
James Tilley: 2 hit by pitch & 1 walk
Colby Brooks: 1 run scored
Dragons fall to Generals in game 3 after tough 7th inning
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports March 30, 2021
Pickens County Ga — A little while after game 2 of the series between the Pickens Dragons and the Heritage Generals ended, the third and final game of the series began. The Dragons, came into the game looking for their first series win in region play. Having lost their first region game in game 2, the Generals came into game 3 looking to maintain first place in 7-AAAA. After a difficult and emotional top of the 7th, Heritage took the 3rd game of the series, 16-4.
In the top of the 1st, Dragons starter Tee Knight, needed 10 pitches to get out of the top half of the frame. In the bottom of the 1st, the Dragons got a 1-out hit from Anthony Antinozzi, but that would be all as we headed to the 2nd inning, still tied at 0.
In the top of the 2nd, the Generals plated 4 runs to take a 4-0 lead over Pickens. In the bottom half of the 2nd, Drake Sutton led off by drawing a walk. Sutton, then advanced to 3rd after a pick off attempt got past the Heritage first baseman. With 1-out, Trace Ledbetter drove in Sutton to make it 4-1 Generals going to the top of the 3rd.
In the top of the 3rd, Hunter White came on in relief of Knight. White, held the Generals scoreless to send the bats of Pickens back to the plate. In the bottom of the 3rd, Seth Densmore would be hit by a pitch, but nothing would come of it as we’d head to the 4th, stil 4-1 Heritage.
Let’s skip to the bottom of the 5th inning. The score still 4-1 Generals. James Tilley got things going by drawing a walk. Connor Shouse, followed by drawing a walk of his own. Antinozzi then followed by reaching on an error. Tilley would score on the play. White, then drove a single to right field. Shouse would score on the play, but courtesy runner Colby Brooks would be thrown out at the plate for the first out. Densmore, then drove in White with an RBI double to tie the game at 4.
In the top of the 6th, JP Nunn came in for the Dragons and sat the Generals down on just 7 pitches. In the bottom of the 6th, the Generals were able to get the Dragons in order as we headed to the 7th, game deadlocked at 4.
In the top of the 7th, some unfortunate events happened if you were a Dragons fan. Nunn, forced a dribbler down the first base line. A bang/bang play at the first base bag with the runner being called safe. Nunn then tried a pick off attempt at first base. Ledbetter, appeared to tag the runner before he got back to the bag. The field umpire however called the runner safe. This, led to the flood gates being opened for the Generals. Heritage, scored a total of 12 runs in the top half of the 7th to make it 16-4. Pickens went quietly in the bottom of the 7th as the Generals took game 3, 16-4.
7-AAAA Baseball Standings:
Heritage: 12-4 (5-1)
Cedartown: 10-6 (7-2)
Northwest Whitfield: 14-4 (4-2)
Central-Carroll: 10-6 (5-4)
Pickens: 9-8 (3-6)
Southeast Whitfield: 8-9 (2-7)
Ridgeland: 3-9 (1-5)
The Dragons, will be right back at it this afternoon as they travel down to Polk County to begin a 3-game series with the Cedartown Bulldogs. As you see in the standings above, the Bulldogs currently sit in the 2nd spot in the region with Pickens sitting in 5th. First pitch for this one set for 5:30 pm.
Dragons take game 2 against Heritage
PHS Baseball, Team FYN Sports March 30, 2021
Pickens County, Ga — We had Monday night baseball on Monday, March 29th as the Pickens Dragons hosted the Heritage Generals for game 2 and 3 of their 3-game series. The doubleheader, was originally scheduled for Friday, March 26th, but the storms that blew through on Thursday, March 27th, forced the doubleheader to be moved to Monday. The Dragons, got runs in the 1st, 4th, and 6th innings as they took game 2 against the Generals, 6-2.
In the top of the 1st, Dragons starter Connor Shouse, picked up two strikeouts as we would head to the bottom of the inning. In the bottom of the frame, Shouse led off with a single. In a long at bat, Anthony Antinozzi, drew a walk to put runners on 1st and 2nd. With 1-out, Seth Densmore drove in courtesy runner Colby Brooks to make it 1-0. Drake Sutton, brought in a run to make it 2-0 Dragons going to the 2nd.
In the top of the 2nd, the Generals cut the Pickens lead in half after a walk and a hit led to a run to make it 2-1. In the bottom of the inning, Heritage sat the Dragons down quietly to send the game to the 3rd inning with Pickens ahead, 2-1.
In the top of the 3rd, Shouse forced three pop outs from the Generals and got out of the 3rd with an 8-pitch frame. In the bottom half of the 3rd, the Dragons got hits from Hunter White and Densmore with 2-outs, but were unable to bring a run home as we’d head to the 4th, still 2-1 Pickens.
In the top of the 4th, another walk and hit for the Generals led to Heritage tying things up at 2 a piece. In the bottom of the inning, Jarod Whitmore would lead off with a single. With 1-out, Parker Rhodes laid down a beautiful bunt to have runners on the corners at 1st and 3rd. With 2-outs, James Tilley would drive in Whitmore to regain the lead for the Dragons at 3-2, going to the 5th.
In the top of the 5th, Tilley came on in relief of Shouse, who pitched very well. Tilley, got out of the top of the 5th in 14 pitches with no damage down. In the bottom of the 5th, the Dragons got a lead off single from Antinozzi, but that would be all. Going to the 6th, the Dragons led the Generals, 3-2.
Much like Shouse in the top of the 3rd, Tilley needed just 8 pitches in the top of the 6th to retire the side. In the bottom of the 6th, Whitmore drew a 1-out walk, Trace Ledbetter got on with a 1-out single, and Rhodes drew another 1-out walk to load the bases. Tilley, then got drilled in the back with a pitch as Whitmore came in to make it 4-2. After a 2nd run would score, Shouse brought in a 3rd run to make it 6-2 Dragons going to the 7th.
In the top of the 7th, Tilley, had a somewhat long half inning with 20 pitches, but kept Heritage off the board as the Dragons took game 2 of the series, 6-2.
With the win, the Dragons picked up their 9th win of the season and their 3rd in 7-AAAA play. After the 2nd game against the Generals, the Dragons were slotted in 5th place in the region standings.