Wayne South still going through learning curve

By Ryan Hanchett
Published in Sports on June 7, 2012 1:48 PM

• Print
• Email

DUDLEY -- The early-season struggles continued for Wayne South in a 12-5 defeat against Wilson in Junior American Legion baseball action Wednesday night.

South made four errors which led to eight unearned runs.

"We have some young guys that we are trying to work in and it showed at times tonight," South head coach David Combs said. "We need some guys to grow up quick."

The night started well for South with two runs in the first inning. Clayton Cashwell and Kevin Williams each singled to lead off the game. Cashwell scored on Garrett Whitfield's groundout and Williams crossed home on Jacob Hollingsworth's groundball.

Wayne South (1-7 overall) made the lead 4-0 in the second when Chris Reedy was hit by a pitch and Nate Barwick drew a walk. Reedy scored on Chase Horton's RBI single and Barwick followed on Cashwell's groundout.

"Our guys were able to do some really nice situational stuff in the first two innings," Combs said. "I felt like we got off to a good start, but then the errors and walks started getting to us."

Wilson cut the deficit to 4-2 in the top of the third inning and broke the game open with a five-run fourth frame. Trailing 7-4, Wayne South got one run in the fourth when Barwick walked and later scored on a Wilson error. The home team would not be able to get any closer.

Already ahead 7-5, Wilson added one run in the sixth inning and four more unearned runs in the top of the seventh.

Hunter Cockrell notched the win on the pitcher's mound for Wilson.

Cody Wendorf suffered the loss for Wayne South.

"We need a guy to step up and make a big play for us right now," Combs said. "Whether it is on the mound, or in the field, or at the plate... We need someone to take charge."

Wayne South plays host to North Lenoir on Sunday.