At first, winning big baseball games came as a surprise to Columbus High.
Now, a youthful Falcons squad is basking in such a position.
Tyler Blevin’s two-run double sparked a three-run sixth inning Tuesday as Columbus turned back Grenada 3-2 in a Class 6A, Region 2 matchup at Sammy Fletcher Field.
“We have been in so many close games, we now play with a lot of confidence in these spots,” Columbus pitcher Trace Lee said. “We always have the confidence that we will make the plays in the end.”
Columbus (13-7 overall, 4-3) is now tied with Grenada for the region lead with two region games left to play.
“We aren’t satisfied with being in first,” Columbus coach Jeff Cook said. “We want to get in the playoffs and continue to win. Still, this is mighty big step for a young team. I love them and I am really proud of them.
“All of our region games have been close. This is a young team which is really growing up.”
In the sixth inning, CHS started things with a leadoff double from Chris McCullough. After back-to-back outs, Lee drew a walk. Blevins then tied the contest with a massive shot to the right center gap.
“I was looking for something to get my teammates home,” Blevins said. “We battled hard all night but hadn’t caught any breaks. I can’t say enough about Trace and what he did on the mound to allow us to win the game.”
After Blevins tied the contest, Gavonta Webb hit a ball which was erred by the Grenada shortstop to bring home the go-ahead run.
With a new adrenaline rush, Lee (7-4) closed out his six-hitter by retiring the side in order on seven pitches in the seventh inning.
“This team has matured a lot,” Lee said. “We feel like we are a much beter team. Grenada is a really good team. To be able to get wins like this gives our team a big boost for the rest of the season.”
Scott was sports editor for The Dispatch.
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