The Shadow
BUCHANAN, Va. (VR) – After a quiet night at the plate in their previous outing, the Alleghany Cougars came alive offensively to defeat the James River Varsity Knights 5–3 in a hard-fought game that showcased both grit and growth.
The Cougars entered the matchup looking to rebound from a lackluster offensive performance, and they did just that—racking up 12 hits and executing in key moments to secure the win. Despite falling behind early after James River’s Hunter Mays launched a two-run homer in the first inning, Alleghany responded with determination.
The tide turned in the third inning when Rilee Webb grounded into a fielder’s choice, scoring the Cougars’ first run. Zeke Saville followed up with a clutch single down the left field line, bringing home another run and giving Alleghany a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.
Trey Cook earned the win on the mound with a steady six-inning performance, allowing three runs on seven hits while striking out four and walking none. Jalen Raether came in to lock down the save, sealing the Cougars’ victory.
Offensively, the Cougars spread the wealth. Carson Brown, Raether, and Tyler Jackson each notched two hits, while five different players—Tucker Phillips, Raether, Webb, Landon Arritt, and Saville—drove in runs. Defensively, Alleghany was flawless, committing no errors, with Saville leading the team with six chances in the field.
