Alabama Christian Ends Season with Sweep of MA

At Senior Night earlier this week, Jackson McGuire stated his favorite ACA memory was the sweep of MA last year in baseball. Well, now he can add this year’s sweep to his list of favorite memories. It wasn’t easy and the team did its best to let the third game of the series slip away from them, but in the end they duplicated last year’s sweep.

Game one of the series was the last home game of the year for ACA (13-17). Mac Moorer took the hill and pitched a complete game gem in the final start of his career. The home standing Eagles jumped all over MA in the first inning with six runs. The visitors used three pitchers just to get through the frame. ACA scored the runs on just three hits as MA walked in the last three runs of the inning. Levi Summers scored on a wild pitch in the second to make the score 7-0. The lead moved to ten runs in the third as Jackson McGuire singled in a run and Alex Heilman and Bryson Dabney both had sac flies. Leading by the same score after four, Alabama Christian just needed to hold MA scoreless in the top of the fifth and everyone could call it an early night. In a theme that would pop up again later in the series, ACA was unable to keep MA off the scoreboard as the visitors scored three runs in the fifth. ACA added one insurance run in the sixth and went on to defeat MA, 11-3.

Mac Moorer struck out five with no walks as he picked up the win. The senior also led the offense as well with a 3 for 4 night with a double, two runs scored, a walk, and an RBI. Jackson Burton finished 2 for 4 with two runs driven in. Jackson McGuire drove in two runs while Ethan Dabney and Levi Summers both scored two runs.

Game two of the series moved to MA for a doubleheader on Friday. Jackson McGuire, like Mac Moorer the night before, would be pitching the last game of his career and he threw a beauty. The senior tossed a three-hitter as he allowed one run and struck out four. Offensively, the Dabney brothers put on a show. The two outfielders combined to go 6 for 6 with two doubles, seven RBI’s, two walks, and two runs scored.

The first two batters were retired in the top of the first, but the next five ACA batters in a row reached safely to give ACA a 2-0 lead after one. Mac Moorer batted again in the second inning and would eventually bat once in all five innings. Alex Heilman and Bryson Dabney had run scoring hits in the second to build the lead to 5-0. The highlight of the third inning was a bases loaded clearing double by Bryson Dabney to break the game wide open at 11-1. Jackson Burton and Dabney drove in runs in the fourth to run the score to 14-1. Jackson McGuire finished the home team off in the fourth and fifth for a 14-1 five-inning run-rule win.

Bryson Dabney finished the game 3 for 3 with a double and seven RBI’s. The seven runs driven in is the most since Matthew Mallett did it in 2007. Ethan Dabney also went 3 for 3 with a double and scored two runs. Jackson Burton was 2 for 3 with four RBI’s and three runs scored. Mac Moorer also scored three runs.

Game three started off as a laugher, but ended with ACA lucky to walk away with the win. The good guys scored seven in the first as they sent twelve men to the plate. Jackson Burton set the tone early as he hit a missile right at the pitcher who was able to get his glove and deflect the ball into centerfield. The highlight of the inning was a two-run triple by Teilan Long up the alley in right field. Jackson Burton pitched for ACA and although he was in consistent trouble managed to hold MA to two runs over the first four innings. ACA scored three in the fourth and two in the fifth to build a 12-2 lead going to the bottom of the fifth. If ACA could keep MA off the board, the game would be over. Unfortunately, MA put a five-spot on the board and cut the lead to 12-7 after five. The home team tacked on another run in the sixth to make the score 12-8. In the seventh, MA scored three times to cut the lead to one and had the bases loaded with two outs. Alex Heilman got the final out on a full count called third strike.

Ethan Dabney continued his hot hitting as he went 2 for 3 with a triple and three RBI’s. Mason Roosendaal also finished 2 for 3 as he scored two runs. Jackson Burton got the win as he went 4 1/3 innings with five strikeouts and Alex Heilman got the save as he relieved Cam Sutton to get the final two outs.

A special thank you to Cathy Moorer who has graciously allowed me to use her photos all year long. Thank you Cathy!!

ACA Swept in First Area Series

The Eagles drew the top team in the Area for their first series of the year. PCA won the Area last year and advanced to the State quarterfinals. This year their sights are set higher as they were able to add a senior transfer from Stanhope Elmore, who is now their best player, to help them chase the blue map.

Although PCA was favored to win the series, the start of game one on Thursday gave the Eagles some hope. Jackson McGuire took the mound for the first game and should have gotten out of the first inning on just six pitches. Unfortunately, the first pitch of the game was misplayed in the outfield which meant after six pitches, PCA had a runner on first with two outs. The visitors made ACA pay for the extra out as they scored twice with two outs and added twenty extra pitches to McGuire’s pitch count. Alabama Christian tied the game in the bottom of the second. Teilan Long led off with a double followed by Alex Heilman getting hit by pitch. With two outs, Brtson Dabney hit a flare to right that scored both runners. Neither team scored in the third or fourth innings as both pitchers settled in. In the top of the fifth, PCA finally broke through and the Eagles could not stop it. The Panthers sent 16 man to the plate in an 11-run frame to blow the game open. ACA was unable to score in the bottom half and the game was over. What was a pitcher’s duel after four turned into a run-rule victory in a single inning.

Bryson Dabney finished the game 1 for 2 and drove in the only two runs of the game. Mac Moorer, Jackson McGuire, and Teilan Long each had a hit. McGuire took the loss and although the final stat line did not look great, he really just had the one rough inning where he ran out of gas after throwing over 100 pitches.

Games two and three were held at PCA on Friday. The home team saved its new ace for game two. The PA booth opened the game playing “Hells Bells” which seemed out of place for two Christian schools. To say the home crowd was into the game would be a huge understatement. Every pitch was like game seven of the World Series and just like little league the Panther players had coaches on the field and in the stands. PCA did not run-rule the Eagles in game two but was in command from the outset. The Panthers scored in each of the first four innings to build an 8-0 lead. The score remained the same until the end as the home team got the shutout victory. In an unrelated story, Stanhope Emore lost to Hueytown on Friday.

Jackson McGuire, Teilan Long, and Bryson Dabney collected the team’s three hits. McGuire was the only player to reach twice as he also drew a walk. Cam Sutton got the loss as he and Mason Roosendaal split the pitching duties.

With the series in hand, PCA felt so good about themselves they didn’t even bother to redraw the batter’s box for the second game of the night. I’m not sure I have ever seen a church league softball game not have a batter’s box much less a varsity baseball game. The Panthers scored four in the first which would end up being enough runs for the win. ACA responded in the second as Mason Roosendaal pulled a ball down the left field line for a double that drove in Teilan Long and Alex Heilman. In the top of the fifth, the Eagles trimmed the lead to one run as Jackson Burton delivered a two-out single to right that scored Mac Moorer. Although the series was already decided, a palpable nervousness could be felt from the PCA faithful. The home team answered with a run of their own to make the score 5-3 after five. ACA did get the tying run on base in the seventh but could not score.

Jackson Burton, Teilan Long, Alex Heilman, and Mason Roosendaal each had hits in the game. Long was the only Eagle to get a hit in each game of the series. Mac Moorer got the loss as he pitched the full six innings with seven strikeouts.

Eagles Win Two to Start the Week

Alabama Christian (10-10) won on Monday and Tuesday as they prepare for their first Area series of the season against PCA on Thursday and Friday. The two games were very different, but ACA came from behind late in both of them to secure the victories.

Monday - Park Crossing

The Park Crossing game was a three-hour marathon that saw ten pitchers used. The Thunderbirds played as the home team although the game was played at ACA’s field. Alex Heilman started for the Eagles and held the opponent to just two runs over four innings. Meanwhile, Alabama Christian put six on the board in the third and fourth innings. In the third, Jackson Burton doubled over the left fielder’s head to drive in the first run of the game. Teilan Long singled in the second run and Burton scored on an error by the catcher for a 3-1 lead. In the fourth, Park Crossing gifted a couple of runs to the Eagles and Long drove in another run on an RBI ground out. ACA led 6-2 after four and looked to be in control.

The Thunderbirds scored six runs in the fifth off the bullpen to take an 8-6 lead. Cam Sutton came in and stopped the bleeding, but the damage was done. Another run in the sixth made it 9-6 going to the seventh inning. Down three heading into their last at-bat, the Eagles put together an eight-run inning. Beau Gainey and Ethan Dabney both singled to start the frame followed by a Jackson McGuire walk to load the bases. Jackson Burton was hit on a 2-0 pitch to drive in a run to make it 9-7. The next two batters were retired and the bases were still loaded. Ethan Dabney scored on a wild pitch to cut the lead to one run and McGuire scored on another wild one to tie it as Levi Summers walked. ACA took the lead on yet another wild pitch as Burton scored from third. Two more walks produced another run for an 11-9 lead. With the bases still loaded, Ethan Dabney singled to right driving in two and a third runner scored on a throwing error from the right fielder for a 14-9 advantage. Mason Roosendall pitched the seventh to close it out.

Ethan Dabney looked great in the leadoff spot as he went 3 for 6 with a double, three runs scored and two RBI’s. Jackson Burton and Teilan Long both went 2 for 4 with two runs driven in. Burton also scored three runs. Cam Sutton picked up the win with two solid innings of relief. Starting pitcher Alex Heilman struck out five over four innings and allowed just one earned run on three hits.

Tuesday - Beulah

As much as Monday’s game resembled a church softball game with all of the runs scored, Tuesday’s contest was a low scoring game where the pitching dominated for much of the night. Two of Beulah’s four hits came in the second when they scored and four of ACA’s six hits came in the fifth when they scored their three runs. The other twelve half-innings produced just four hits.

Teilan Long started for the Eagles and pitched well enough to win as he went four innings allowing one run with three strikeouts. Long was helped by the play of Beau Gainey at shortstop. Twice Gainey made plays deep in the hole to help hold Beulah to just one run. Gainey came into relieve in the fifth and retired the side in order. ACA’s offense came to life in the bottom of the fifth as the visitor’s defense helped the cause. With one out, Levi Summers fought off an 0-2 inside pitch and drove it into left for a single. Up next, Mason Roosendaal hit a grounder for what could have been an inning ending double play, but the second baseman booted it and both runners were safe. In the next at-bat, Summers was almost picked off second by the catcher, but he was able to avoid the tag. With two outs Ethan Dabney and Mac Moorer hit consecutive singles to drive in two runs while a third scored on an error by the right fielder. Once he had the lead Gainey pitched two scoreless frames to end it for the 3-1 win.

Jackson McGuire led the offense with two hits in three at-bats. Mac Moorer, Jackson Burton, Levi Summers, and Ethan Dabney had the other hits. In relief, Beau Gainey pitched three innings and gave up one hit and no runs.

ACA Splits Four Games in Spring Break Action

After dropping all three games last week, the Eagles (8-10) headed south for their annual trip to the coast during spring break. ACA hoped to build some momentum heading into Area play next week. The team won two and lost two over three days. ACA defeated Victory Christian (OK) and South Lamar and lost to Oak Ridge (TN) and Dale (OK).

Game one - Victory Christian

Jackson McGuire started the week off with a called strike, but Victory did manage to score a run in their first at-bat. ACA went down 1-2-3 in their half of the first to trail by a run after one. McGuire bounced back and retired the side on just six pitches in the second inning. The Eagles put up a crooked number in the second as Bryson and Ethan Dabney both had run scoring singles to help build a 5-1 lead. Mason Roosendaal and Bryson Dabney each drove in runs in the third as Alabama Christian stretched the lead to 8-1. Victory scored two unearned runs in the fourth and would not cross the plate again. ACA tacked on two runs in the fourth and two more in the fifth for the 12-3 final.

Bryson Dabney had a perfect game at the plate as he went 2 for 2 with three RBI’s. Jackson Burton, Alex Heilman, and Teilan Long each went 2 for 4 and combined for five runs scored and three runs driven in. Jackson McGuire got the win with six strong innings allowing just one earned run with nine strikeouts.

Game two - Oak Ridge

Oak Ridge was the best team ACA faced over the four games. The team from Tennessee dominated from the beginning and won easily, 18-0. Mason Roosendaal drew the very tough assignment of facing Oak Ridge as the Eagles used four pitchers in all. The offense mustered just two hits, a third inning single by Mac Moorer and a pinch-hit single in the fourth by Sam Schotteker.

Game three - South Lamar

Tuesday’s game was easily the most exciting as ACA scored three runs in the bottom of the seventh for a walk-off victory. Alex Heilman tied the game at 1-1 with an RBI ground out in the second. In the third, Mac Moorer knocked Bryson Dabney in and later scored himself on an infield error to give the Eagles a 3-1 lead. In the fifth inning, South Lamar scored three runs to take back the lead as the first six batters reached base, four via an error. In the bottom half, Heilman once again drove home the runner from third with an RBI ground out to tie the game, 4-4. South Lamar scored twice in the sixth and led by the same 6-4 score going to the bottom of the seventh.

Remarkably, ACA sent six men to the plate in the seventh and not a one of them was retired. Jackson McGuire worked a walk to lead off, Jackson Burton followed with a double to left, and Teilan Long was hit by a pitch to load the bases. Alex Heliman drove in his third run of the day with a single to center to make the score 6-5. Levi Summers tied the game with another single to center. Mason Roosendaal finished it as he swung at the first pitch and singled to center for the game winner, 7-6.

Cam Sutton did not get the decision, but kept the team in it over six innings. Beau Gainey pitched the seventh and picked up his first varsity win of his career after ACA walked it off. Mason Roosendaal and Bryson Dabney both finished 2 for 3 while Levi Summers went 2 for 4 .

Game four - Dale

It was fitting that Mac pitched against Dale in the finale of the week. The Dale offense scored five runs with two outs as they proved difficult to retire. ACA scored two in their first at-bat for a promising start. Alex Heilman knocked in Mac Moorer and Sam Schotteker with a single to the shortstop. Unfortunately, the offense only produced one more run while Dale scored in every inning except the third. Dale would defeat ACA 10-3.

ACA had opportunities as the team had eight hits led by Jackson McGuire and Teilan Long who both had two hits. Mac Moorer, Alex Heilman, Levi Summers, and Ethan Dabney had the other hits.

Alabama Christian defeats Beulah in Saturday Contest

The trip to Beulah was supposed to be a doubleheader against the host school, Beulah, and Horseshoe Bend, but Horseshoe Bend cancelled due to illness on the team. With the change, the varsity played first and the second game was a JV contest. The varsity team won 6-1, but the game was really more of a pitcher’s duel although you wouldn’t think so looking at the final score. Cam Sutton pitched a complete game beauty to earn the win as he gave up just five hits and struck out six Bobcats.

ACA (6-5) had a golden opportunity to get on the board in the first inning as Mac Moorer and Jackson McGuire both singled to start the game. With one out what could have been a Tielan Long bloop single turned into a fielder’s choice as the runner going to second was thrown out. A pop out in the next at bat ended the chance. Beulah’s first opportunity to score came in the bottom of the second. The Bobcats had runners on first and second with one out, but Cam Sutton struck out the next two batters out to end the threat. The Eagles finally broke through in their half of the third with a run. With two outs, McGuire singled to left and his courtesy runner, Sam Schotteker, advanced to second when an errant pick off attempt got by the first baseman. Jackson Burton drilled an 0-1 pitch to the outfield for a double that scored Schotteker.

Neither team scored in the fourth as Cam Sutton worked around an infield error to start the frame. ACA’s second run, which came in the fifth, was courtesy of the Beulah defense. With two outs an infield error produced an Eagle baserunner. After two wild pitches moved the runner to third, another infield error scored him for the 2-0 lead. The Bobcats best offensive showing was in the bottom of the fifth. The first two batters singled, the second hit being a pretty push bunt past the pitcher. The next batter hit a rocket right at Mac Moorer for the first out. The next batter singled to load the bases with one out. The home team scored its only run on the next play as Moorer was able to force the runner at third for the second out. On the first pitch of the next at bat, Beulah tried to steal third, but the batter was called out for interfering with the catcher. Although the Beulah faithful argued long and loud about the way the inning ended, it was the right call.

ACA immediately got the run back in the sixth as Mason Roosendaal singled to center and advanced to second on a passed ball. Levi Summers delivered a run scoring single to right for a 3-1 advantage. The Bobcats were kept off the board in the sixth. The Eagles knew some insurance runs would be nice to make it more difficult for the Bobcats. Jackson Burton delivered the insurance in dramatic fashion as he mashed an 0-2 pitch over the left field wall for a 5-1 cushion. Roosendall drove in the final run of the day with an RBI ground out for the five run lead. Cam Sutton finished what he started as he set down three in a row in the seventh.

Jackson Burton finished the day 2 for 4 with a double and a homer with three RBI’s. Jackson McGuire went 2 for 3 and Sam Schotteker, who ran for McGuire, scored three runs.

Eagles Breeze Past Verbena in Easy Victory

Breeze is an understatement, it was more like blew past Verbena. The powerful winds kept the flag at attention for most of the game. ACA handled the Red Devils easily on Saturday and felt they could do the same on their own field on Tuesday. A depleted Verbena pitching staff did not help their cause.

Starting pitcher, Alex Heilman set the tone for the game early on as he retired the side in the top of the first on just three pitches. A pitcher can’t be more efficient than that. Just to prove it was no fluke, he retired his fourth batter on his fourth pitch of the game in the second. In all, the sophomore needed only 18 pitches to work his way through three innings. The righty gave up just one hit and struck out two to earn the victory.

ACA took advantage of four Verbena errors in the first inning to put a six-spot on the board. The big hits of the frame were a two-run double by Mason Roosendaal and run scoring two-bagger by Ethan Dabney. Jackson Burton got things cooking in the second as he launched a two-run jack to left center for an 8-0 lead. Roosendall drove in another run with a single to center to make it 9-0. Mac Moorer, Jackson McGuire, and Burton (for the second time in the at-bat) each drove in a run to make it 13-0 after two.

Alabama Christian played base to base in the third with a commanding lead, but still managed to score six more times. Mac Moorer, Jackson McGuire, Teilan Long, Sam Schotteker, and Bryson Dabney each drove in a run in the inning. Levi Summers made his pitching debut in the fourth to close the game out.

Jackson Burton led the offense as he went 3 for 3 with a homer, three RBI’s, and two runs scored. Mason Roosendaal finished 2 for 3 with a double, a walk, three runs driven in, and three runs scored. Jackson McGuire and Mac Moorer both drove in two runs.

Eagles Split Two in Verbena

ACA (4-4) wrapped a very busy week of baseball with two games at Verbena. The fans and teams were treated to a beautiful day to enjoy. The Eagles defeated the host team in the first game 14-1, but dropped the second game of the day against Westminster-Oak Mountain, 2-14.

Game one - Verbena

The Alabama Christian offense had its best perfromance of the year against Verbena as they set season bests for runs (14) and hits (16). Jackson Burton and Teilan Long both delivered four hits which was the first time since 2007 two players had four hits in the same game. Long also tied the school record with four runs scored in the contest.

Mac Moorer singled on the second pitch of the game and the offense was off and running. Jackson Burton and Alex Heilman both had run scoring hits in the frame as ACA led 4-0 after one. Moorer led off the second with another single to start a five-run inning. Teilan Long drove in two with a single to left and Kade Brannen drove in another as the lead increased to nine runs. All three Alabama Christian runs in the third were tied to Verbena errors as the score was 12-1 after three. The last two runs of the game were scored from another Long RBI hit and an infield out by Levi Summers. Neither team scored in the fifth as ACA won by a score of 14-1.

Jackson Mcguire, who was back after missing two games due to illness, pitched a complete game gem as he held the Red Devils to one run over five innings with nine strikeouts and just one walk. Teilan Long was 4 for 5 with four RBIs and four runs scored while Jackson Burton went 4 for 5 with a double and three runs scored. Jackson McGuire, Mac Moorer, and Alex Heilman each finished with two hits.

Game two - Westminster-Oak Mountain

Alabama Christian showcased some of its younger talent on the mound in game two as Mason Henry took the hill in his first varsity game. The young pitcher held the Knights scoreless in the first with just a two-out walk allowed. The offense put two on the board in the bottom half to give ACA an early lead. Jackson Burton singled Jackson McGuire in and later scored on a wild pitch to gain the two-run advantage. After a walk and hit batter, the Westminster coach had a quick hook for his starter and brought in a relief pitcher. The righty struck out the next two Eagles to restore order for the Knights. In the second, a two-out walk was all Henry gave up again as ACA maintained a 2-0 lead after two.

With one out in the third, Westminster got on a hot streak that ACA could not stop. Seven consecutive batters reached base, including six straight hits, before Henry was pulled trailing 2-7. Mason Roosendaal came in to relieve Henry and gave up three more hits before Westminster could be retired. The Knights scored ten runs in all in the at-bat to take control of the game. The Eagles had a couple of chances to try and get back in it, but could not deliver the clutch hit when needed. In the third, ACA had runners on first and second with no outs, but two infield fly pop ups killed the rally. In the fourth, the first two runners again reached base, but a double play ball up the middle put a stop to the scoring chance. Westminster scored four in the top of the fifth to make the score 14-2. ACA ended the game by hitting into another double play for the run-rule defeat.

Jackson Burton finished 2 for 2 with a walk, an RBI, and a run scored. Beau Gainey also had two hits in two at-bats while Kade Brannen had the team’s other hit.

ACA Sends Providence Christian Home in Walk Off Fashion

For the first time since 2020, Alabama Christian (3-3) won all three of its games in the Jason Armstrong FCA tournament. Friday night’s victory was a thriller as the Eagles overcame a two run deficit and won the game in the seventh, 4-3.

Providence Christian struck first as they pushed across a run in the opening inning with two walks and a single for a 1-0 lead. After struggling with his control in the first, Cam Sutton got just what the doctor ordered in the second as he retired the side in order on just six pitches. The score remained the same until the bottom of the third. Levi Summers started the inning with an infield single deep in the hole at short. Ethan Dabney sacrificed him to second for the first out of the frame. With two outs, Alex Heilman (fast becoming one of the most consistent bats in the lineup) delivered a single to right scoring Summers to tie the score.

The Eagles from Dothan put runners at second and third with no outs to start the fourth. Cam Sutton got the next two batters out and it looked as if ACA would escape unscathed, but a wild pitch allowed Providence to score and retake the lead, 2-1. They added a third run in the fifth for a two run lead. In the bottom half, Levi Summers led off with a walk followed by an Ethan Dabney line drive triple that tailed away from the right fielder as he made a diving effort. Summers scored to cut the Providence lead to one run. Alex Heilman delivered again as he singled to right, scoring Dabney, to tie the game, 3-3. Neither team scored in the sixth and Teilan Long came in for ACA to pitch the seventh in relief of Sutton. Long navigated the top of the opponent’s lineup only giving up a one-out walk.

Ethan Dabney led off the seventh with a four-pitch walk. With one out, Alex Heilman walked which forced a pitching change for Providence. The pitching style went from a hard throwing lefty to a right handed soft tosser, but the result was the same. Jackson Burton walked to load the bases with one out. Teilan Long came to the plate with a chance to give himself his first pitching decision of his varsity career. On a 1-0 pitch the freshman hit a hard ground ball into left field for the win.

Although he did not factor in the decision, Cam Sutton pitched a gutsy six innings with four strikeouts. Teilan Long picked up the win with his relief work in the seventh. Alex Heliman led the hitters with a 2 for 3 night with a walk and two runs driven in. Jackson Burton, Ethan Dabney, Teilan Long, and Levi Summers each had one hit in the game. Dabney and Summers combined to score all four of the team’s runs, each scoring twice.

ACA Shuts Out Brew Tech at Paterson Field

It was a beautiful day for baseball and the Eagles (2-3) added to the experience as they defeated Brew Tech 9-0. The Rams are coached by former ACA baseball star, Mario Galloway, class of 2017. Mac Moorer took the hill for ACA and was in control from the first pitch of the game. The righty threw an economic 75 pitches over six innings with two-thirds of them being strikes.

Neither team scored in the first two innings even though the Eagles put runners on in each frame. ACA finally broke the seal in the third as they scored three times. Mac Moorer hit a single to right to score Ethan Dabney for the first run and later scored from second on a wild pitch that the Rams couldn’t corral. Teilan Long drove in the third run with a line drive to left scoring Alex Heilman.

The wheels came off a bit for Brew Tech in the fourth. The Eagles first three batter reached to load the bases thanks to two defensive errors. A wild pitch produced the fourth run and an infield throwing error allowed two more runs to cross. ACA reloaded the bases with a walk and a hit batter with one out. Levi Summers drew a walk to score a run and Teilan Long scored on a wild pitch to make it 8-0. The final run of the game came on a run scoring grounder from Mason Roosendaal. After four, ACA led 9-0 and just needed a run to send the fans home early. In the fifth, Alabama Christian loaded the bases with one out, but could not score. In the sixth, they loaded them again, this time with two outs, but still could not score. Alex Heilman pitched the seventh to close it out for the 9-0 victory.

Mac Moorer picked up the win as he pitched six shutout innings with seven strikeouts and no walks. Ethan Dabney led the offense with a 3 for 4 performance with two runs scored. Alex Heilman reached base four times as he delivered two hits with a walk and a hit batsman. Moorer and Teilan Long each reached base three times on the afternoon.

ACA Defeats Trinity to Open FCA Tournament

It’s a great experience to be able to play at Riverwalk and Paterson each year in the Jason Armstrong FCA Tournament. It’s even more fun when you can beat one of your rivals in the process. The Eagles (1-3) opened play this week at Riverwalk and defeated Trinity 5-2. As good as the team looked today, it’s hard to believe this was the first win of the year. Hopefully the victory will boost confidence and spur the team to many more wins.

Jackson McGuire set the tone early as he mowed the Wildcats down 1-2-3 in the first while striking out the first two hitters. In the second, Trinity put runners on second and third with no one out, but the senior hurler gave up just one run and struck out two more batters. ACA tied the game in the third thanks to a Jackson Burton sac fly that scored Mason Roosendaal and took the lead as the Wildcat first baseman could not hold on to the throw from short, scoring Ethan Dabney. The Wildcats threatened again in the third as they loaded the bases with one out. Once again, McGuire allowed only a single run to keep the score 2-2.

Neither team scored in the fourth although Alabama Christian did load the bases with two outs, but could not plate a run. The fifth inning started innocently enough as Jackson Burton led off with a single, but the next two hitters were retired. Levi Summers drew a walk and the Wildcat reliever developed a case of the yips on the mound. He balked twice during Alex Heilman’s at-bat scoring Burton and moving Summers to third. Adding insult to injury, Heilman singled to right to drive in the runner from third to give the Eagles a 4-2 advantage.

After Jackson McGuire got the first two outs in the fifth, Coach Guice made the move to the bullpen and brought Mason Roosendaal to the mound. The young reliever struck out the next batter to end the Wildcat threat. Jackson Burton helped tack on an insurance run in the sixth as he doubled over the left fielder’s head to drive in Mac Moorer. The defense flashed the leather in the sixth as Teilan Long made a great running catch in shallow right field for the first out. Levi Summers handled the next two as he caught a third strike foul tip for the second out and threw out the batter at first after strike three bounced up to the plate to end the frame. ACA again loaded the bases in the seventh, but did not score. Sometimes, the hardest three outs in the game are the last three, but Roosendaal handled the situation like a veteran to close the game.

Jackson McGuire earned the victory as he pitched 4 2/3 innings, allowing just one earned run with six strikeouts, four looking. Mason Roosendaal picked up the save with 2 1/3 innings of relief work as he allowed just one hit and struck out four. Jackson Burton led the charge at the plate as he went 3 for 3 with a double and two RBIs. Alex Heilman went 2 for 3 with a walk and a run driven in while Ethan Dabney was 2 for 4 with a run scored. Mac Moorer was up to his old tricks as he went 1 for 1 and was hit twice by WIldcat pitchers.

ACA Comeback Falls Short in Extra Innings

It was another frigid night of baseball as Alabama Christian (0-3) hosted Chilton County in its home opener. Thankfully, the forecast calls for warmer temps next week. ACA had a four-run seventh to force extras, but could not pull off the W. The Eagles actually outhit the visitors 10 to 9, but seven of the Tiger’s nine hits were for extra bases including two home runs.

The Tigers first homer of the night came in the first for a 2-0 lead. Neither team scored over the next three frames as each pitcher settled into a nice groove aided by an umpire who loved the curveball. Any curve close to the plate was going to be a strike. in the fifth, Chilton County tacked on three more runs for a seemingly commanding 5-0 advantage. ACA got on the board in the bottom half as four Eagles, Mac Moorer, Jackson McGuire, Jackson Burton, and Teilan Long, all reached after two were out. Long’s infield single drove in Moorer to cut the score to 1-5.

As the bottom of the seventh approached, ACA had one final chance to get back in the game. Sam Schotteker led off with a bloop single to left and advanced to second one batter later on an infield ground out. Jackson McGuire rifled a ball just inside the third base line for a double to cut the deficit to three runs. Jackson Burton singled to center, but Mcguire was initially held up at third. However, he would eventually score on the play as the catcher uncorked an errant throw trying to nail Burton at second. Teilan Long walked and Bryson Dabney was hit by a pitch to load the bases with one out. Levi Summers hit a grounder to the shortstop, but the Tigers could not turn the double play as the runners on second and third both scored to tie the game, 5-5. Chilton County answered quickly as they hit the second pitch of the eighth out for a 6-5 lead. ACA went quietly in the bottom half.

Jackson McGuire led the offense as he went 3 for 5 with two doubles and an RBI, Teilan Long finished 2 for 3 with a double with a run driven in while Jackson Burton also had two hits in three at-bats. Although Cam Sutton took the loss, he pitched effectively in relief as he gave up just three hits in 3 2/3 innings with four strikeouts. Starter Mac Moorer lasted 4 1/3 innings with seven punch outs.

Alabama Christian Loses Afternoon Tilt at Catholic

ACA (0-2) visited Catholic Tuesday afternoon for a 1:00 start for the high school version of the businessman’s special. Like the opener, the defense was once again generous as the Eagles committed eight more errors against the Knights. Alabama Christian did continue to battle and scored three in the seventh in the 3-8 defeat.

Catholic scored in the first inning with a one-out double for a 1-0 lead. ACA put two on the second with just one out, but could not score as the score remained 1-0 after two innings. The Eagles loaded the bases with two outs in the third, but once again could not push across a run. Teilan Long picked up the team’s first hit in the frame. The Knights scored two in the bottom half aided by two errors for a 3-0 cushion after three.

The home team added three more runs in the fourth to bust the game open. Catholic added an eighth run in the sixth for an 8-0 advantage. In the seventh, Sam Schotteker and Ethan Dabney both walked to start the frame. Mac Moorer and Jackson McGuire both followed with singles as each drove in a run. Bryson Dabney drove in the third run with an RBI groundout for the final margin, 3-8.

Mac Moorer led the offense with two hits in four at-bats with a run scored and an RBI. Jackson McGuire, Teilan Long, and Ethan Dabney each had a hit in the game. Mason Roosendaal made his varsity debut and pitched a solid 2 2/3 innings of relief.

Alabama Christian plays their home opener Thursday, February 20, against Beulah.

ACA Opens Season with Loss to Wetumpka

It seems to work this way most years. The week before games are scheduled to start you experience the best weather, but when it’s time for the games to start, old man winter makes a comeback. Thursday night, Alabama Christian (0-1) opened the season in Wetumpka as the temperature hovered in the 40’s with a brisk wind from the north. Although the Indians ultimately run-ruled ACA in six innings (14-3), the game was more competitive than the final score allowed. The pitching was not bad as the four hurlers gave up just five earned runs, but the defense committed six errors and the offense mustered just five hits.

Cam Sutton set the Indians down in order in the first on just 13 pitches. Alex Heilman delivered the first hit of the year in the second as he drove Sam Schotteker home with a single to left. Wetumpka scored two in the bottom half, but a line drive double play ended the inning with the home team ahead 2-1. Neither team scored in the third and the Indians brought in a reliever for the fourth inning. It was the right move by the Wetumpka manager. The pitcher would strike out seven over the next three innings as he dominated the back half of the game.

With the Eagles bats stymied, Wetumpka pulled away scoring twelve runs over the final three innings. The only runs ACA was able to push across was on a Levi Summers sac fly in the sixth which ended up scoring two due to an errant throw from the right fielder.

Bryson Dabney led the offense as he went 2 for 3 with a run scored. Jackson Burton, Alex Heilman, and Levi Summers delivered the other three hits on the night. Jeremiah Johnson made his varsity debuts in the opener.

Alabama Christian visits Catholic on Tuesday, February 18th, in its next action.

ACA Splits Doubleheader with LAMP on Senior Night

Senior night started in the worse way possible, but Landon Nelson’s dominant performance in game two salvaged the night. ACA (10-15) honored the team’s three seniors, Grant Cornette, Zander Costanza, and Landon Nelson.

LAMP jumped all over the Eagle starter in game one with four runs in the first inning and one more in the second before the first of three relievers came in. The pitchers all played on the JV team during the year and made their varsity mound debuts in the game. Alex Heilman, who had played in a few varsity games earlier in the season was the first reliever. Cade Brannen and Beau Gainey both made their first appearance in a varsity game as the second and third relievers used. LAMP would eventually score eighteen and runs and have just as many hits in an 18-2 victory. The nightmare game ended in fitting fashion as Jackson McGuire lined into a triple play. Although there were no outs, both runners took off like there were two outs and were tagged out easily.

Jackson McGuire and Bryson Dabney were the bright spots offensively as McGuire finished 2 for 4 and Dabney was 1 for 2 with two runs scored.

The home team had a decision to make before game two, they could continue to take a beating or show some fight. Landon Nelson put the team on his back and dominated on the mound with a complete game effort and a new career high 14 strikeouts in a 5-1 triumph.

Over the first two innings both teams scored a run without the benefit of a hit as the rain came down. Jackson Mcguire had the game’s first hit with a two-out single in the third. ACA broke the game open in the fifth as the home team loaded the bases with one out. McGuire was hit by a pitch for a 2-1 lead. Landon Nelson hit a sac fly to center for a 3-1 lead and Jackson Burton hit a bloop single to shallow right for a 4-1 advantage. Teilan Long scored an insurance run in the sixth as he stole third and came home on an errant throw. In the seventh, Nelson struck out the first two LAMP batters and the last out was a pop-up to the senior to end it.

Landon Nelson drove in two to lead the team as Mac Moorer scored two runs for top honors. Four players, Jackson Burton, Teilan Long, Jackson McGuire, and Moorer, each had a single for the team’s only hits.

Eagles Drop Important Area Game to St James

To look at the 12-4 final score against St James on Thursday, you would think the Trojans blew ACA (9-12) out in the first game of the Area series, but final scores can be deceiving, The Eagles trailed by just two runs after six innings and had multiple chances during the game to score and overtake its opponent.

The wind was swirling prior to first pitch and played a role on the first ball put into play. The Trojans benefited from the wind with a bloop double to right to start. St James moved the runner over and drove him home with a ground out for a 1-0 lead. Alabama Christian had a golden chance to respond in the bottom half. ACA loaded the bases with no outs, but the next three batters failed to put the ball in play and the score stayed 1-0. The Trojans were back at it in the third as back to back errors loaded the bases. St James plated four runs in the inning to take a commanding 5-0 lead. In the fifth the visitors added a sixth run and seemed poised for an easy victory.

In the bottom of the fifth, Alabama Christian finally scored thanks to Trojan miscues. Levi Summers started the rally with a lead off single followed by a one-out knock from Mac Moorer. Jackson Mcguire walked to load the bases once again for the Eagles. Summers scored on a passed ball for the first run and Moorer and McGuire scored after an infield error to cut the lead to 6-3. In the sixth, Teilan Long scored after he stole third and came home on an error by the third baseman to cut the lead to two runs. Unfortunately for ACA, they could not keep the game close in the seventh to give themselves a chance. St James scored six in the frame to blow it open, 12-4. In the home team’s final chance, the first two batters reached, but like the rest of the game, the next three batters were retired in order to end the game.

Landon Nelson pitched his heart out, but got the loss as he gave up seven earned runs with four strikeouts over 6 2/3 innings. Mac Moorer had half of the team’s hits as he finished 2 for 4 with a run scored. Jackson McGuire and Levi Summers produced the other two hits. Nelson drove in two runs for top honors.

Alabama Christian continues the Area series against St James on Friday in a must-win situation.

Eagles Cruise to Easy Victory

Alabama Christian (9-11) hosted Percy Julian, formerly known as Lee, on Monday and posted the team’s ninth win of the year. The home team scored ten in the first and the game was never really competitive in the 15-1 blowout. Despite the lopsided score, the Eagles only outhit their opponent four to three.

Jackson Burton got the surprise start and set down the visitors in order in the first. In the bottom half, nine of the first ten batters reached, including Mac Moorer reaching twice in the span. Only three of the ten runs were scored by hits as the other seven were scored in a variety of ways. Four runs scored on wild pitches, two from a throwing error on the catcher, and one from a bases loaded walk. Burton ran out of gas in the second and left the mound with two runners on and two outs. In relief, Grant Cornette struck out the next batter to end the frame. ACA did not score in the second and the game remained 10-0.

in the third Julian put together a couple of hits and scored a run on a double steal to get on the scoreboard. In the home half, three more runs scored without a hit to make the margin 13-1. Bryson Dabney ended the scoring with a two-run single, scoring Jackson Burton and Teilan Long.

Landon Nelson led the offense with a 2 for 2 night with two runs driven in and three runs scored. Zander Costanza and Bryson Dabney delivered the team’s other two hits. Connor Foucault and Dabney both drove in two runs. Jackson Burton and Grant Cornette combined for nine strikeouts over four innings on the hill.

Alabama Christian hosts Billingsley on Tuesday in its next axtion.

Eagles Run Rule Carver in Four Innings

As ACA (7-9) readies for Area play at the end of the week, the Eagles have two games against local opponents on Monday and Tuesday. Monday’s contest saw Alabama Christian host an over matched Carver team and the home team won easily, 16-1.

Carver scored in the first to take an early lead, but Garnt Cornette knocked in Mac Moorer to tie the score. After Moorer went an inning to start, Landon Nelson struck out the side after giving up a leadoff single in the second. In the bottom of the second, the wheels fell off for Carver as ACA scored eleven runs in the frame. Ten of the first eleven batters reached safely as Carver committed three errors. The run scoring hits belonged to Moorer with a two-run double and Nelson with an RBI single. The other eight runs scored on an assortment of errors, passed balls, wild pitches, and walks.

Cam Sutton came in to pitch the third and gave up one hit as he faced four batters. ACA hoped to end it in the third, but managed just one run to keep the game alive for another inning. Sutton came back out for the fourth and set the Wolverines down 1-2-3. in the home half of the inning it looked as if we might play another as two of the first three Eagle batters were retired. However, the next three players reached and Grant Cornette ended it with a single to center to make the lead fifteen.

Grant Cornette led the offense with three hits in four at bats with a run scored and two driven in. Mac Moorer, Landon Nelson, and Teilan Long collected the team’s other three hits. Moorer drove in two runs to match Cornette for the top spot while six players scored two runs. Nelson picked up the win with an inning of relief. The three pitchers combined on a two-hitter with eight strikeouts over four innings.

If weather allows, ACA visits Catholic on Tuesday in their next contest.

Alabama Christian Finishes Week with Dominant Performance

After dropping the third game of the week on Tuesday to Goodpasture (TN) the Eagles bounced back on Wednesday and trounced Victory Christian (OK) by a score of 14-1 in four innings. ACA split their four games played over spring break.

The game started in a competitive manner as ACA scored two in the first inning and Victory responded with one in the bottom half. However, the Eagles ended any suspense in the second inning as they exploded for eight runs in the second. After the leadoff hitter was retired, the next eight batters reached safely. Alabama Christian loaded the bases without the benefit of a hit. Jackson McGuire, Landon Nelson, and Grant Cornette each drove in single runs before Jackson Burton delivered the big blast with a grand slam over the left field fence to give ACA a 9-1 advantage. Cam Sutton drove in the last run of the frame for a 10-1 lead.

Landon Nelson, who gave up a run in the first on the mound, settled in and mowed down the Conquerers as he retired nine of the next ten hitters over the final three innings. The senior helped his own cause with a two-run double in the third followed by a two-run single by Grant Cornette for a commanding 14-1 cushion. Neither team scored in the fourth as the game ended after four innings.

Mac Moorer, Landon Nelson, and Grant Cornette each delivered two hits to lead the offense. Moorer scored three runs while Nelson and Cornette each drove in three runs. Jackson Burton led the team in RBIs with four driven in with one swing of the bat. Nelson dominated on the mound to earn the victory as he gave up two hits and one run with nine strikeouts over four innings.

Alabama Christian returns to action next Monday, March 25, as they travel to Greenville.

ACA Splits a Pair on Day One of Spring Break Tournament

Spring break for the baseball team started at 9:00 am Monday morning at the ball field. Alabama Christian (5-8) played Brighton (TN) in the first game and Hilldale (OK) in game number two. Game one was a nine inning thriller that ACA won 4-3 while game two got away from the Eagles late in a 2-10 loss.

Game one - Brighton

The Eagles struck first and scored three runs in the first two innings. in the first, Mac Moorer and Jackson McGuire got on to start the inning, but it took a two-out single from Jackson Burton to plate the first run of the game. In the bottom half, Moorer and McGuire teamed up again as they got the last out of the inning by throwing a runner out who was attempting to steal home. in the second, after loading the bases with no outs, Bryson Dabney singled in the second run of the day and McGuire knocked in the third run on an RBI fielder’s choice. Meanwhile, Moorer, who got the start on the hill, breezed through the Brighton lineup the fist time around as he faced the minimum of nine batters through the first three innings.

In the fourth inning, Brighton finally scored with the help of two Eagle errors to cut the deficit to one run. The designated home team hoped to score more than two, but Sam Schoeteker made a fabulous catch for the third out in center to end the threat. Neither offense could get any momentum in the fifth and sixth innings and the teams went to the seventh with ACA still clinging to a one-run lead, 3-2.

In the seventh, Bryson Dabney led off the inning being hit by a pitch, but could only get as far as second base. In the bottom half, Brighton put together two hits to tie the game 3-3. Landon Nelson came in with two outs to try to keep it tied. After giving up an infield single, Nelson recorded the third out as the game headed to extra innings. Neither offense put anyone on base in the eighth and the ninth started that way for the Eagles. The first two batters in the inning struck out, but the next three reached safely to put Alabama Christian ahead. Dabney was hit for the second time in the game followed by a walk from Mac Moorer. Jackson McGuire delivered the game winning single to center on an 0-2 count to give ACA the lead. Nelson closed the door in the bottom half and the Eagles walked away with a thrilling win to start the day.

Jackson McGuire led the offense with a 2 for 5 day with two runs driven in while Teilan Long went 2 for 4 in the opener. Jackson Burton and Bryson Dabney both had a hit and an RBI. Landon Nelson picked up the win with 2 1/3 innings of relief work with two strikeouts. Starter Mac Moorer, who pitched well enough to win, lasted 6 2/3 innings while striking out four and allowing just two earned runs.

Game two - Hilldale

ACA scored first in game two as well, but that was the highlight of the second game. Grant Cornette knocked in Mac Moorer with an RBI ground out to take an early 1-0 lead. ACA loaded the bases in the second, but was unable to push across a run. The Hilldale bats came alive in the third as they scored four in the frame for a three-run advantage. Trailing 5-1 in the sixth, the Eagles loaded the bases again and scored their second run when Moorer was hit by pitch, but three runs down would be as close as they would get. Hilldale doubled their score as they scored five in the sixth to end it by a final score of 10-2.

The offense mustered just three singles from Grant Cornette, Telian Long, and Cam Sutton although they were hit by pitch five times and drew two walks. Cornette and Mac Moorer drove in the two runs. Cam Sutton got the loss as he gave up five earned runs in five innings while striking out three. Long made his debut on the mound for the varsity as he pitched to the last two hitters of the game.

ACA Impresses in Road WIn at Tallassee

Tallassee handled Alabama Christian in its first match up of the season, but the Eagles turned the tables on Thursday night with a convincing 6-1 defeat of the Tigers. It was the best performance of the year heading into spring break. The home dugout was loud and rowdy to start the game, but as the Eagle pitching and defense kept posting zeroes on the scoreboard, the dugout grew quieter and quieter. One group that did not stay quiet was Tallassee’s own peanut gallery who were perched on a hill all the way down the left field line. Despite the distance from the field, the group was able to point out everything the umpires missed.

Cam Sutton started for ACA and performed masterfully as he used his defense behind him with an efficient effort. Sutton faced just eight batters over the first two frames as his catcher, Jackson McGuire helped him out of trouble in the second. With one out and runners on first and third, McGuire threw out the runner attempting to steal second for the second out of the inning. It was a close play and the Tallassee coach disagreed with the call. When the next batter flew out to left, the coach chirped at blue all the way across the infield. After several warnings to stop, the umpire tossed the coach out of the game.

The Eagles offense then provided some fireworks of its own with three runs in the third. Bryson Dabney led off the inning with a walk followed by a Mac Moorer single. Jackson McGuire tried to move the runners over with a sac bunt, but Dabney was forced out at third for the first out. The next three batters, Landon Nelson, Grant Cornette, and Jackson Burton, each drove in a run to build a 3-0 lead. Tallassee finally scored in the fourth, but Sutton held the Tigers to a single run. Neither team scored in the fifth or sixth as ACA looked to add some insurance in their final at bat.

Mac Moorer and Jackson McGuire started the seventh with back to back walks. Landon Nelson singled to center to drive in Moorer and move McGuire to third. An infield error loaded the bases and Jackson Burton followed with a ground ball single to center to drive in two runs for a 6-1 cushion. Nelson, who came in to relieve the starter in the fifth, set the Tigers down in order by striking out the side to pick up the save.

Three players delivered two hits apiece to lead the offense in the win. Jackson Burton went 2 for 3 with three RBIs while Mac Moorer finished 2 for 3 with two runs scored and Landon Nelson was 2 for 4 with a double, two RBIs, and two runs scored. Bryant Swindle, who courtesy ran for Jackson McGuire, scored the other two runs. Cam Sutton picked up his first varsity victory going 4 1/3 innings while giving up a run with one strikeout. In relief, Nelson pitched 2 2/3 innings and struck out six to earn the save.

The Eagles head south for spring break to play four games in Gulf Shores. Monday’s schedule sees ACA face Brighton (TN) and Hilldale (OK).