It was a strong start to the week for the Ware County Gator Baseball program on Monday, March 2, 2026, as both the Junior Varsity and Varsity squads picked up impressive victories in split action.
JV Gators Storm Back to Defeat Brantley County, 10-8
At Gator Field, the Ware County JV Gators showed grit and determination, rallying from a seven-run deficit to defeat Brantley County 10-8 in an exciting comeback win.
Brantley County jumped out early, scoring multiple runs in the first inning and taking advantage of walks, timely hits, and a wild pitch to build a 6-0 lead. An error in the second inning allowed another run to cross, stretching the deficit to 7-0.
The Gators refused to back down.
In the bottom of the third, Ware County began chipping away at the lead. Hayes Sweat drove in a run with a single, Tyden Bradley worked a bases-loaded walk, and Ryder Gilbert delivered a clutch two-run single to spark the comeback effort.
After Brantley tied the contest at eight in the fourth inning, the Gators regained control late. In the bottom of the sixth, Brayden Tanner ripped a single down the left field line to put Ware County back in front. A passed ball later in the inning added an insurance run that proved to be the difference.
Chaden Carter was outstanding, tossing 5 2/3 innings while allowing just one run on three hits. He struck out six and walked two to secure the victory.
Offensively, Brayden Davis, Asher Lee, Brayden Tanner, Lucas Howard, Hayes Sweat, Reavis Barnes, Chaden Carter, and Ryder Gilbert each recorded a hit. Tanner, Sweat, and Gilbert drove in runs, while Lee added two stolen bases to keep pressure on the base paths.
Varsity Gators Dominate Appling County, 13-1
On the road, the Varsity Gators delivered a complete performance in a 13-1 victory over Appling County in five innings.
Landon Smallwood led the offensive charge with a four-RBI performance, driving in two runs with a first-inning single and adding a two-run double in the fourth. The early offensive explosion set the tone for the evening.
Ware County extended its lead in the third inning with RBI singles from Walker Hudson and Slade Sweat, along with aggressive baserunning that resulted in another run scoring on a passed ball.
On the mound, Seth Suess was dominant. The right-hander struck out nine batters over four innings, allowing just one run on five hits while walking one. Ryder Kinnon added a scoreless inning in relief to close out the win.
The Gators pounded out 12 hits in the contest. Slade Sweat led the way with three hits, while Garrison Joyner added two. Ware County showed patience at the plate with six walks and was electric on the base paths, swiping 11 stolen bases. Suess, Sweat, Collin Crawford, Smallwood, and Hudson each recorded multiple steals.
Defensively, the Gators were flawless, committing no errors and turning a double play. Walker Hudson anchored the defense with nine fielding chances.
Up Next
The Gators return home on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, as they host the Vidalia Indians at Gator Field. First pitch is scheduled for 5:45 PM.
Tickets are $7.00 and can be purchased online at gofan.co or at the gate.
Game Day Policies
Clear Bag Policy: Only clear bags will be permitted inside the facility.
Parental Supervision Policy: All students must be under the direct supervision of a parent or guardian while attending athletic events.