The Pleasant Grove Hawks have advanced to the Region semi-finals of the Texas High School Baseball playoffs, and are ready to take on Argyle.

The Hawks pitched their way past Canton in the region quarterfinals last week. Two games, zero runs given up, and a nine inning no-hitter were the highlights for the PG pitchers of Caleb Bolden and Tyler Jeans.

Coach Riley Fincher said going into the series there they knew Canton was a very aggressive and productive team, Fincher says,"I thought both guys (Bolden and Jeans) gave us great performances on the mound. They were both able to get out of some situations that allowed the team to stay in the game."

Fincher believes Jeans pitched his most complete game of the season. "To throw a 9 inning no hitter, needing only 91 pitcher, shows how efficient he was throughout the day."

Both games were tight close affairs, except the Hawks busted open game one in the sixth inning with a grand slam home run from Will Hlavinka. Game two went into extra innings with freshman Jackson Cobb knocking in the winning and only run of the game. Fincher wants to see his team do a better job of driving in runners when they are in scoring position. He was happy with Hlavinka and Cobb's efforts, saying, "Both Will and Jackson did an outstanding job of executing in run scoring situations. It was great to see guys throughout the lineup continue to contribute."

Defensively, Fincher likes the job the Hawks did in making the routine plays and limiting the opportunities Canton had available. Coach was really pleased with his catcher, " I thought Keaton Russo did a great job behind the plate. Our pitchers have so much confidence in him, that it allows them to throw any pitch at any time without hesitation."

Next up is Argyle. According to Fincher, they are a great high school baseball team, which continues to play at a high level. He fully expects a great series between two good baseball programs.

The Hawks have experience on their side and FIncher is pleased they have continued to find ways to win ball games." Our team, all 17 players, do a great job of playing team baseball and doing whatever it takes to win and advance."

The best of three series will be played at Mike Carter Stadium at Tyler Junior College, which suits Fincher just fine, saying, "Our team had the opportunity to play there last year during the playoffs, so most of our guys are familiar with it. We fully expect a great atomosphere. Our fans and community have always done a great job of supporting these guys and we are always grateful for the amazing support."

Game one will be Thursday starting at 7:30, with Caleb Bolden expected to start for the Hawks. Game two will be Saturday afternoon at 2, with Tyler Jeans expected to get the start. Game three if necessary would follow all in Tyler.

These are two really exceptional baseball teams colliding, with each hoping to move on to the Region Finals. Here's hoping it's the Hawks who will still be playing next week!!!

 

 

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