COLLEGE

Mitchell's gem helps Gastonia keep good times rolling in American Legion playoffs

Joe Hughes jhughes@gastongazette.com
Gastonia's Fermin Osio scoops up a grounder during a recent Post 23 contest. [Mike Hensdill/The Gaston Gazette]

Gastonia players heard plenty about how good Rutherford County was in the days leading up to Friday’s series opener at Sims Legion Park.

In the aftermath of Game 1, Gastonia players are now asking the question “How about us?”

Guided by the steady hand of starter Austin Mitchell, the Ramblin’ Rebels scratched out a 4-0 win to get a leg up in the best-of-five series.

After a three-game sweep of Asheville in the first round of the Area IV playoffs, Post 23 manager Josh Cobb was eager to see how his club handled success. Needless to say, after Friday’s result he was pleased.

“It was really important to get a sweep because it allowed us to rest, as well as get our pitching lined up for this series,” he said. “Having our No. 1 pitcher go really makes a difference in series like this, and our team really rallied around that. This was a really gritty win by our ball team.”

After relatively even play through two innings, Post 23 broke the deadlock with a little help from Rutherford County.

A throwing error by Post 423 shortstop Keaton Snethen allowed the Ramblin’ Rebels’ Xavier Swann to score from second for the game’s first run. North Gaston product Fermin Osio followed with an RBI base hit of his own to put Gastonia up 2-0 after three innings.

It would stay that way until the sixth, when Post 23 tacked on a pair of runs courtesy of hits by Wes Summey and Swann.

The added insurance would be more than enough for Mitchell, who put a bow on a complete game effort.

He allowed two hits while issuing three walks in the contest, and struck out five to earn the win.

“It was real important (to get ahead in the series), a lot like the last one we played,” Mitchell said. “It helps to build a lot of confidence. Just a good feeling to win.

“I didn’t feel any pressure, I just got into a groove and everything was working. (Those sixth inning runs) gave me a cushion to just go out there and work, and finish the job.”

Swann was 2-for-3 with an RBI and run scored, while Jason Odem was also 2-for-3 in the game. Tyler Bradley also had a base hit.

Gastonia now heads to Rutherford County - Forest City, specifically - for games in consecutive days. With that in mind, Post 23 put pressure on themselves to make sure it took the series opener.

“In the playoffs you have to be good at all three facets, and tonight I believe we were,” Cobb said. “It was every important knowing we had (Mitchell) going, plus knowing we would have to go there for the next two games. Now this one is behind, and (Game 2) is the most important one.”