The Shadow
BUCHANAN, Va. (VR) – The Alleghany Junior Varsity Cougars put up a strong offensive effort, but mistakes on the mound and in the field proved too much to overcome in an 8-5 loss to James River on Tuesday. Despite outhitting their opponents 8-7, the Cougars were unable to capitalize on key opportunities and fell short in a tightly contested matchup.
Alleghany jumped on the scoreboard first in the opening inning. Joel Bradshaw’s sacrifice fly brought in a run, giving the Cougars a 1-0 lead. However, James River quickly answered back in the bottom half of the inning. A timely double from #7 put them ahead 2-1, and they would go on to control the game from there.
Ben Skidmore, the Cougars’ starting pitcher, had a solid outing but ran into trouble as the game progressed. Over four and two-thirds innings, Skidmore allowed six runs (three earned) on five hits. He struck out seven batters but also walked four, with the defense behind him committing a few costly errors. While Skidmore showed flashes of brilliance, the combination of free passes and defensive miscues allowed James River to take and hold the lead.
On the mound for James River, Levi Peck was dominant. The right-hander pitched six and one-third innings, allowing seven hits and five runs (one earned). He struck out 10 batters and walked only one, making it difficult for the Cougars to string together any rallies. Despite allowing a few runs, Peck was in control throughout the game, keeping Alleghany from mounting a serious comeback.
Carson Cosby was a bright spot for the Cougars, finishing 2-for-3 at the plate with two RBIs. His strong performance helped keep Alleghany within striking distance, while Bronson Shinault and Ben Skidmore also added two hits each. However, the Cougars were unable to string together enough hits in key moments to close the gap, and timely pitching by James River kept them from capitalizing.
James River’s offense was paced by Peck and Easton Medley, both of whom collected two hits. Peck drove in two RBIs and played a major role in his team’s success, both on the mound and at the plate. His all-around performance was the difference in the game, as the Cougars struggled to find ways to stop him.
The Cougars will be back in action tonight at Casey Field where they will host Northside, first pitch 5pm.
.
