Indians finish preseason tournament with .500 record

Ledger Sports Editor

Gaffney coach Tom Owens didn’t need to check the scorebook to pinpoint the reason for his team’s 5-1 loss to highly-ranked Ridge View on Saturday.

“We just aren’t hitting in the clutch,” Owens said.

The Indians scored just one run after loading the bases with one out in the first.

Andy Strickland gave up three unearned runs in two innings and was saddled with the loss. Brock White turned in a strong effort in relief, giving up just two runs in five innings of work.

Gaffney finished the Frank Roach Preseason Tournament with a 2-2 mark. The Indians turned in their most dominating performance of the tournament in a 16-0 victory over Lewisville on Friday.

Starter Bobby Wilkins was the story, striking out 10 and giving up just one hit in going the distance.

“Bobby had good location,” Owens said. “His fastball was good. He needed this for a confidence builder.”

Brett Irvin smacked a 2-run homer for the Indians. Holden Poole, Strickland, Davie Smoak and Preston Byars also hit safely for the Indians

Owens said the Indians have some work to do before they open the regular season Tuesday against visiting Dorman.

“We are throwing too many pitches and we need to start hitting with runners in scoring position,” he said. “We aren’t far off, but we’re a little slow in getting there.”

Justin Sarratt will start against the Cavaliers.