JON JON READ PACES ANOTHER OFFENSIVE SURGE AS COUGARS ROLL PAST JACKSON STATE, 13–2
| Final | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | R | H | E |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 13 | 18 | 1 |
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0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 5 | 1 |
JACKSON, Tenn. — Continuing a season defined by relentless offense and consistent execution, Cleveland State Community College turned in another complete performance Friday afternoon, defeating Jackson State Community College 13–2 at Jack Martin Field.
The victory improves the Cougars to 18–7 overall and 11–2 in TCCAA play, as Cleveland State continues to assert itself as one of the league's most dangerous and balanced teams. Entering the day, the Cougars ranked among the TCCAA leaders in runs scored, hits, extra-base hits, walks, and stolen bases.
At the center of Friday's offensive explosion was Jon Jon Read, who delivered one of the finest all-around performances of the season. The sophomore shortstop went a perfect 5-for-5, scored three runs, recorded two doubles, stole two bases, and reached base seven times, setting the tone from the top of the lineup and applying constant pressure on the Jackson State defense.
"Jon Jon was special today," said head coach Aaron Bryant. "He controlled the game offensively, put pressure on them every time he reached base, and really embodied who we are as a program. When he plays with that kind of tempo and confidence, it raises the level of our entire lineup."
Cleveland State struck early and never let up, scoring in seven different innings while finishing with 18 hits and 11 walks. Nolan Sergeant continued his outstanding season at the plate, scoring three runs and launching a two-run home run, while also drawing two walks and stealing a base.
The middle of the order delivered once again as Evan Leonard went 2-for-5 with a two-run home run, a sacrifice fly, and two runs scored. Nelson McKnight added a three-hit performance, driving in two runs, while Owen Phillips chipped in two RBIs on a pair of doubles.
Depth throughout the lineup remained a strength. Nate Severance finished 3-for-5 with a double, RBI, stolen base, and two runs scored. Jordan Smith added an RBI double behind the plate, and Hank Adams reached base four times and drove in a run. Off the bench, Riley Mahan delivered a double and scored, while Kwade Carver worked two walks to help extend innings.
On the mound, Max Owens was dominant, earning the win after throwing seven innings, allowing just three hits, striking out nine, and not allowing an earned run. Anthony Biondo and Cade Batchelor combined to close out the final two innings.
Jackson State was limited to five hits on the day, with its scoring coming on a solo home run and an RBI single, as Cleveland State pitching consistently worked ahead in counts and avoided big innings.
Cleveland State and Jackson State will conclude the series on Saturday with a doubleheader at Jack Martin Field. First pitch is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. CT.
