Senior Blake Russell hits a two-run home run to help Buford defeat Collins Hill 9-0 in Region 8-7A play on Friday, April 12 at Gerald McQuaig Field in Buford.
Russell’s two-run home run, his first home run of the season came in the bottom of the third inning and was hit to right-center field. Buford had already scored two runs in the inning when Ayden Lockett hit a two-RBI double to deep center field that drove in first baseman Nate Taylor and shortstop Ethan Murray.
Before the Wolves’ huge third inning, they scored one run in both the first and second innings. They would add a run in the fourth inning and the sixth inning, making the final score 9-0 in favor of Buford.
Junior Braden Burton (4-1) started on the mound for Buford and would pitch for six innings. Burton gave up three hits and no runs while striking out four and walking two. Lockett relieved Burton in the seventh inning and quickly ended the inning, ultimately ending the game.
Buford had a great defensive showing from third baseman Madden Young, Murray and Taylor to aid Burton in the win.
Offensive standouts for Buford against Collins Hill were Russell (1-for-2, two-run home run, two RBIs, three runs scored, two stolen bases), Lockett (1-for-3, double, two RBIs, one run scored, one stolen base), Jayden Clark (2-for-3, double, one RBI, one run scored, one stolen base) and Taylor (2-for-3, two runs scored).
Buford’s overall season record improved to 17-7 and they remain undefeated in Region 8-7A with an 11-0 record. Buford is No. 1 in Region 8-7A.
The Wolves will play at Truist Field on Saturday, April 13 against Mount Paran Christian Academy. The game starts at 1 p.m.
