Post 109's Michael Hughey, shown receiving congratulations after a home run, and his teammates will open the state tournament Friday against Florence. Photo by LARRY HILLIARD Gaffney Post 109 has some unfinished business.

The local American Legion squad has no championship banner to show for its previous four trips to the state tournament. But first-year manager Zach Clary thinks that experience should bode well for his team this time around.

“The majority of our team has been to the state tournament and they know what to expect,” Clary said.

Post 109 was a disappointing 1-2 at last year’s state tournament. This year, Post 109 appears to be peaking at the right time.

After an 0-2 start to begin league play, Post 109 won 12 of its next 14 regular-season games. Post 109 has been just as hot in the playoffs, winning six of eight games.

Clary traces the success to his team’s hot bats.

“The defense and pitching has been there, but we’ve begun to hit the ball,” he said.

Clary said the hitting came around when his batters became more patient and waited for their pitch.

“When we are hitting, we aren’t out in front of everything,” Clary said. “If we remain patient, we can hit the ball.”

Jordan Garrett, who has been moved from sixth to cleanup, and Bobby Jackson have ignited the offense as of late.

Jackson also will be counted upon to limit the other team’s offense as the possible game one starter. Ryan Westbrook and Bubba Wright round out the starting rotation while Garrett, Kaleb Earls and Bryon Munsterman will work out of the bullpen.

Post 109 had a light workout on Sunday and will practice Monday and Tuesday before another light workout on Wednesday. The teams will be honored at a banquet on Thursday before the tournament begins on Friday.

Seven of the eight spots in the state tournament have been locked up. Hartsville, Goose Creek and Murrell’s Inlet are battling for the final spot.

It appears Post 109 will open the tournament on Friday against Florence.

Rock Hill, West Columbia, Hilton Head, Sumter and host Richland round out the competitive field.

This year’s tournamant will be played at Capitol City Bomber Stadium on Assembly Street in Columbia.

Clary said he likes the venue. “I’ve been there a couple of times and they have it looking good,” he said.