Bobcats’ breakout season ends with hard-fought loss to Clay in regional tourney

Published 9:03 pm Monday, June 3, 2024

: Bell County sophomore Blake Burnett gave up only two earned runs on four hits with eight strikeouts and six walks during the Bobcats’ game against Clay County in the 13th Region Tournament. Burnett also had a hit and RBI in Bell’s 6-4 loss. (Photo by John Crisologo)

From 4-25 in 2023 to 16-9 in 2024, the Bell County Bobcats were the 13th Region’s most improved team this spring. Their season ended Wednesday, but not without a good fight as Clay County fought back from a 2-0 deficit to win 6-4.

Daniel Thomas, the Bobcats’ only senior, led the offense with two singles. Joseph Brigmon hit a home run. Logan Greene, Holden Clark, Blake Burnett and Brayden Carroll added singles.

Tyson Wagers led the way for the Tigers with two hits and an RBI, Tate Rice finished with a hit and two RBI. Brandin Crawford added a hit and an RBI.

Crawford earned the win in relief as he pitched 3 1/3 shutout innings with eight strikeouts. Talan Marcum started the game, pitching 3 2/3 innings while allowing six hits and one earned run while striking out three.

Clay County tied the game at four apiece in the bottom of the fifth before going ahead for good in the bottom of the sixth with two runs.

Tyson Wagers led the way with two hits and an RBI while Tate Rice finished with a hit and two RBI. Crawford added a hit and an RBI while added a hit and scored once. Ethan Jackson also scored a run.

The Bobcats got on the board first when Burnett had a single to drive home Cooper Brock. Jackson Walters reached on an error to bring in Burnett.

Burnett started on the mound for the Bobcats and gave up four runs (two earned) on four hits with eight strikeouts in five innings. Brock allowed two runs while recording two outs. Joseph Brigmon allowed one hit as he recorded one out.