Kinston Post 43 prevails in game one over Wilson Post 13
In a battle that spanned three days and shifted between three locations due to intermittent rain delays, #4 seed Kinston Post 43 emerged victorious over #1 seed Wilson Post 13, winning 7-5 on Saturday. This game, the opener for the best-of-5 playoff series, showcased not just the teams' skills but also their resilience and adaptability in the face of unpredictable conditions.
Originally set to start in Wilson on Thursday, the game saw Kinston draw first blood, as they gained a 2-1 lead following a passed ball that resulted in two runs. The rhythm of the game, however, was thrown into disarray as rain disruptions meant the game had to be moved to Kinston on Friday. Undeterred, Wilson clawed back into the lead at 5-3, only for the game to be suspended once again due to rain in the fifth inning.
When play resumed on Saturday, Post 43 rose to the occasion. A decisive top of the sixth inning featuring singles by Garret Byrd, Jackson Harrell, and Leland Barrow, swung the lead back in their favor at 6-5.
Kinston’s relief pitcher, Alex Davis, was instrumental in their win. He gave a stellar performance over three innings, allowing just one run and four hits, striking out five and walking two. Starter Ricky Cooke set the tone, allowing zero hits and only one run over his two innings on the mound on day one.
Offensively, Barrow and Byrd each recorded two hits, while Harrell and Barrow, hitting back-to-back, each drove in two runs. Their combined efforts underscored Kinston’s depth and potency at the plate. The team also showcased their discipline, tallying 10 walks, with Tyler Sears and Braden Burress leading with two each.
Despite the loss, Wilson Post 13 had noteworthy performances as well. Drew Wells led the team with 2-for-4 hits, while Spencer Bass contributed two runs batted in. The team maintained their composure, earning nine walks, with Peyton Clay and Carter Batts securing two free passes each. They also flexed their defensive muscle, executing two double plays.
Kinston’s coach Ty Eason, reflecting on the arduous journey to the game's conclusion, expressed pride in his team's performance, “Winning game one is huge! I am proud of every guy on our roster for taking care of their stuff during that marathon. Up and down the lineup we put the ball in play. Alex Davis pitched his butt off tonight to solidify a win for us. We have a gritty bunch that is tired of getting punched and has finally started swinging back."
As the series continues, Kinston Post 43's tenacity and ability to adapt will surely serve them well, setting the stage for an enthralling set of games ahead.
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