Harlan’s two aces were dominant Tuesday in a doubleheader sweep at Middlesboro as the Green Dragons coasted to four-inning victories of 17-2 and 12-0.
“It’s good to see this team starting to come together as a unit. There were contributions from everyone tonight, whether it was on the field or keeping the energy going in the dugout,” Harlan coach Lee Freyer said. “These players love each other and love the game. I’m proud of their effort.”
Varner pitched a two-hitter in the opener and gave up two unearned runs with nine strikeouts and three walks.
Colt Bayless started for the Jackets, giving up 10 runs (seven earned) on seven hits with two strikeouts and five walks in 3 1/3 innings. Parker Hampton and John Hayes also pitched in the fourth inning but neither recorded an out as Hampton allowed six runs and Hayes gave up one.
Luke Luttrell drove in five runs with a homer, double and single. Brody Owens also drove in five runs as he singled twice. Jared Moore also had two singles. Eli Freyer and Jaxson Perry added doubles. Chris Rouse and Jake Brewer had singles.
Bayless and Hayes each had singles for Middlesboro.
Luttrell pitched a no-hitter in the nightcap with 11 strikeouts and one walk.
Owens, Varner and Freyer led the Harlan offense with a double and single each. Moore had one double.
“Baylor and Luke came out and did their job. Both pitched extremely well. When they work ahead in counts, they are dominant,” Varner said. “Offensively, the extra base hits we had tonight are really good to see. I think six different players had extra base hits. Luke showed off some power. He’s seeing the ball well right now. Brody is really starting to come on strong. He’s been driving a lot of runs in. He’s becoming more and more confident at the plate.”
Harlan (10-8) plays host to Lee, Va., on Saturday at noon. Middlesboro (0-10) travels to Pineville on Friday.
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Middlesboro 002 0 — 2. 2. 4
Harlan 331 (10) — 17. 11. 1
Bayless, Hampton (4), Hayes (4) and Capps; Varner and Owens. WP — Varner (2-2). LP — Bayless. HR — Luttrell (1).
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Harlan 323 4 — 12. 7. 1
Middlesboro 000 0 — 0. 0. 3
Luttrell and Rouse; Capps, Harris (3), Wicks (4) and Bayless,. WP — Luttrell (3-2). LP — Capps.