Diamond Cohesion: Bainbridge Bearcats Play for Each Other in Senior Night Triumph
Published 6:59 pm Thursday, April 17, 2025
Photo submitted by Bearcat Dugout Club.
Photo submitted by Bearcat Dugout Club.
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Coach Ryan Riles of the Bainbridge Bearcats couldn’t hide his pride after his team’s recent 4-0 victory over Miller County on Senior Night. Reflecting on their ability to execute on both offense and defense, he described the game as a showcase of the team’s cohesion. “In baseball, if you’re not hitting, you need to be fielding; if you’re not fielding, you need to be hitting,” Riles remarked. “To see both come together tonight was amazing. The guys are gaining confidence, believing in one another, and playing for each other.”
Prior to the game, nine Bearcat seniors were recognized on Bearcat Diamond: Right fielder, No. 2 Amarion Donaldson, No. 9 Daniel Reynolds, No. 10 Parker Landrum, No. 13 Nate Cannon, No. 15 Preston Hutto, No. 18 Luke Griffin, No. 23 Bowen Smith, No. 24 Camryn Scott, and No. 34 Graham Beckham.
A particular standout was senior pitcher No. 10 Landrum, whose quick rhythm on the mound challenged opposing batters. Riles explained, “As a hitter, when you’re rushed, it changes everything. (Landrum) works fast, keeps hitters off balance, and controls the game’s tempo. It’s exactly what we teach—be quick, effective, and keep the pressure on.”
Landrum has now thrown three straight complete games. It’s a testament to his demeanor, workhorse ability, and trust in his teammates when he takes the mound. It was 7.0 innings of effortless and quick work. Throwing under 90 pitches, punching out seven, and giving up just one hit well facing 22 batters.
Another key moment came from underclassman second baseman Benji Dollar, whose triple set the stage for a crucial four-run rally in the bottom of the third inning. “Benji is a spark plug,” Riles said. “He’s young, but his baseball IQ is off the charts. I’ve known him since he was a kid, and he’s always loved and studied the game.”
Dollar’s line-drive triple to left field ignited the Bearcats with renewed energy in the bottom of the inning. Their disciplined approach at the plate and ability to capitalize on Miller County’s defensive miscues allowed the Bainbridge Bearcats (10-13, 7-3) to draw a total of five walks, two in the bottom of the third inning.
Dollar scored on a passed ball, giving Bainbridge an important run. Shortly afterward, shortstop No. 4 Jake Barber earned a walk, keeping the Bearcats’ lineup active and momentum strong. After a fielding error in center field, Barber would score from first base to make it 2-0 Bearcats, and Griffin would advance to third base on the same error. No. 8 Brooks Hines would walk, keeping Griffin at third base.
With runners on the corners, a double steal occurred where Hines stole second base on defensive indifference, and Griffin crossed home plate to add another run. Hines would then move to third base on a passed ball during a 2-1 count. Landrum then hit a sacrifice fly to right field, allowing Hines to tag up and score from third base, making it 4-0 Bearcats.
Overall, Bainbridge’s batters combined timely hitting with heads-up base running, while Miller County’s defensive lapses played a significant role in this pivotal inning.
With performances like these, the Bearcats are showing they’re more than just a team—they’re a cohesive, determined group ready to play for one another and keep the momentum rolling.
The Bearcats will hold their last regular-season home matchup tomorrow afternoon at 5:30 against the Grace Christian Cougars. A matchup on the diamond that the entire town of Bainbridge, Georgia, will be buzzing about.
