By JOSH FRYE
News Sportswriter
Caleb Davis led on the mound, helping to launch Escambia Academy past Lighthouse Christian, 8-3 on March 8. Davis pitched just over 3 innings, striking out 7 batters and allowing only 3 hits. Kayne Hooks led the Cougars at the plate against the Stingrays, going 1-for-1, driving in 3 runners, gained a double and walked once. Sam Fields supplemented Hook’s performance at bat, going 2-for-2 and scoring twice.
Despite the winning performance over Lighthouse, the Cougars fell later in the week (March 11) against Ezekiel Academy, 12-11. According to EA head coach Mike Sims, Randall Bonds registered the pitching loss to the Knights. At the plate, J.J. Stevens stepped up as the leader, going 4-for-4 with a walk and 3 Rabi. Fields and Jacob Lee each went 2-for-2 at bat. Fields gained 1 RABI and stole one base. Lee gained 2 RBI’s.
With the loss, Sims stressed that the Cougars will be working to improve, especially on the mound.
“We have to stop beating ourselves,” Sims said. “We have way too many walks and unforced errors. We need to eliminate those.”
Sims added that when the team plays solid defense, they are a force to be reckoned with.
“Our speed makes us tough to beat,” he said. “We also have the ability to make plays athletically that other teams cannot.”
Despite the split week, Sims added that the Cougars will make adjustments in the weak areas and are excited to continue through the schedule this season in hopes for a AISA championship.
The Cougars will next face Sparta Academy on Thursday, March 18.