Conroe Tigers held off a late rally from Grand Oaks to secure a 4-0 shutout victory at home. A strong performance from pitcher Collan Bowley and key defensive plays ensured the Tigers’ win in a crucial district matchup.
The Grand Oaks Grizzlies tried to come back late in the game, but the Conroe Tigers defended their home field and easily won 4-0.
Conroe was eager to get back on top after a tough road loss to the Grizzlies the previous weekend. Head Coach Jeff Raymer told the players that the team's main goal was to play their style of baseball, which stuck with them throughout the game.
Collan Bowley, the Tigers' best pitcher, came through for them and had a great game. Grand Oaks posed an early threat, but Bowley silenced their bats by letting them make only light contact, and his defenders backed him up with important double plays.
It didn't take Conroe long to get ahead. The Tigers went ahead 2-0 in the first inning after Jaden Keith walked to load the bases. Tanner Trantham hit a sacrifice fly RBI, and Ed Rothlander and Gavin Stanger each hit an RBI, scoring 2-0.
After three innings with no runs, Conroe's attack started again in the fifth. Jackson Reagan hit a deep ball that drove in another run after Keith walked for the second time. Stanger gave up his at-bat so Conroe could score their fourth and final run.
The Grizzlies were out of outs, so in the seventh inning, they made one last play by loading the bases with no outs. No matter what, Conroe's substitute pitcher Sam Buzbee didn't give up. Even though there was a lot of pressure and loud Grand Oaks cheers, Buzbee struck out the next two batters to seal the shutout win.
Now, the Tigers are getting ready for a home-and-away set against Willis. Meanwhile, Oak Ridge is preparing for the Battle of the Oaks, which will be played at Grand Oaks.
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