By Beth Jones
The Pirates are the District 4-3A champions. The top-seeded Fernandina Beach High School baseball team shut out No. 2 West Nassau 10-0 Thursday in the title game at The Ballpark at Fernandina Beach.
“What a great accomplishment,” said head coach Jon Shave. “Really proud of the way the team came out focused and ready to play from the first pitch.”
The Pirates (21-4), West Nassau Warriors and No. 3 Ribault all drew first-round byes. In the semifinal round, FBHS blanked No. 4 Andrew Jackson 10-0 and West Nassau beat Ribault 13-1.
“Pitching was outstanding. Preston we really good tonight, no hitter for the District Championship is special. He’s been really good all year,” said Shave.
In the championship game, the Pirates collected 13 hits, including three each by John Addington, who had a double and three RBIs, and Trace Farmer, who had a pair of doubles and three RBIs. Conner Bayless (two RBIs) and Landen Holbrook had two hits apiece. Dalton Janey, Preston Matricardi (RBI) and Lucas Hutchinson had one hit each.
“Our offense and base running really set the tone tonight. We had some great at bats against a really good pitcher and our aggressive base running really kept our momentum going. Really liked the way Landen Holbrook swing the bat. When he’s getting on base, our offense is good. Trace Farmer continued what he’s done all year with the bat. Nice seeing him come to bat when guys are on base,” continue Shave.
Janey, Farmer, Holbrook and Addington stole a base.
Matricardi got the win on the mound. He pitched all five innings, giving up no hits or runs, walking three and striking out 10 Warriors.
Yulee lost to Bishop Kenny 12-1 Wednesday in the semifinal round of District 4-4A tournament. Yulee beat Terry Parker 10-3 in the quarterfinal round.
“Monday we’ll find out who we play next. We’re excited that we will be home for the first round of the playoffs,” said Shave.
