Former Gaffney star emerges as ace of staff

JUSTIN SARRATT This is what it often looks like when former Gaffney High and Clemson University standout Justin Sarratt is pitching: plenty of strikes, few baserunners and a win for his team.

Thomasville Hi-Toms fans and the Coastal Plain League teams are learning that first hand this summer.

With Louisiana Tech product John Anderson out with an injury, Sarratt has emerged as the ace of the Hi-Toms pitching staff.

Sarratt has compiled a 3-1 record and a 1.44 ERA. He is already a 2-time selection as the Coastal Plain League's Pitcher of the Week.

"I'm just having fun out there," Sarratt said. "I'm playing with a great group of guys, and I'm just pitching my best for them."

Sarratt said he is focused on improving the location, movement and velocity of his pitches.

"You have to have location to pitch at this level," he said.

Sarratt said he's already experienced gains in strength by long tossing and achieved more movement on his fastball.

He could add to his accomplishments Monday when the Coastal Plain League announces selections for its All-Star game. The All-Star Game will be played the weekend of July 17-18.

But Sarratt said that's not a concern right now.

"I don't even know when it's going to be announced. I just want to win for the team," he said. "If I get selected, I get selected."

The Hi-Toms are the two-time defending Coastal Plain League champions. In the first half this season, they finished second behind the Forest City Owls and began the second half with a 4-1 mark.

Sarratt said he enjoys the structure of being a starting pitcher for the Hi-Toms.

"I like it because I start once a week and I get prepared for that start," he said.

If the 'Toms advance to the Petit Cup Playoffs, they will play in Columbia on Aug. 7-9.

"I just want to improve the way I throw," he said.