The Shadow
BUCHANAN, Va. (VR) – A strong start wasn’t enough to carry the Bath County Varsity Chargers, who fell 15-4 to James River on Monday after a tough stretch in the opening innings.
The Chargers struck first in the top of the first inning. Cooper Lowry grounded out to drive in a run, giving Bath County a brief 1-0 lead. However, James River responded swiftly in the bottom half, scoring four runs. An error opened the door for two runs, followed by RBI contributions from Maddox Moore and Cam Saunders.
Bath County’s struggles continued into the second inning, where James River poured on seven more runs. The Chargers’ defense faltered under pressure, and the Knights capitalized on three hits, several walks, and additional miscues. Saunders highlighted the inning with a two-run double, while Carter Birckhead added another RBI double.
Lowry was tagged with the loss, lasting just one-third of an inning and allowing four runs—two earned—on three hits. James River’s Kody Park turned in a dominant performance on the mound, tossing three hitless innings, striking out three, and walking none.
Offensively, Bath County managed two hits on the night—one apiece from James Campbell and Owen Perdue. Both players were active on the bases, stealing multiple bags. As a team, the Chargers tallied six stolen bases. Lowry, Mason Phillips, and Gunnar Whiddon each drove in a run.
James River’s offense combined patience and power, drawing 10 walks and recording nine hits. Saunders led the way with three RBIs, and Hunter Mays notched a team-high two hits. Moore and the Joyce brothers each reached base multiple times via walks.
The chargers will take on Parry McCluer on Tuesday in Buena Vista.
