WAYCROSS, GA -The Ware County Gators opened their Region 1-AAAA series in thrilling fashion Tuesday night, holding off the Perry Panthers for a 4-3 victory at Gator Field.
Ware County wasted no time getting on the board in the bottom of the first inning when Seth Suess launched a two-run home run to left field, giving the Gators an early 2-0 advantage and setting the tone for the night.
The Gators extended their lead in the second inning as Collin Crawford delivered an RBI single to push the score to 3-1. However, Perry responded in the top of the third inning, stringing together timely hits to even the game at 3-3. A key double by Jackson Thompson highlighted the Panthers’ rally.
Ware County regained the lead in the bottom of the fourth inning, capitalizing on a passed ball to plate what would prove to be the game-winning run.
On the mound, Seth Suess delivered a strong complete-game performance to earn the win. The right-hander allowed five hits and three runs - only two earned - over seven innings while striking out four and issuing just one walk. His command and composure down the stretch helped secure the narrow victory.
At the plate, Suess also led the Gators offensively with two RBIs, finishing 1-for-3. Isaiah White paced Ware County with two hits in three at-bats, contributing to a balanced offensive effort. Defensively, the Gators turned a key double play to help limit Perry’s opportunities.
Perry was led offensively by Jackson Thompson, Janaris Reeves, Seth Harper, Reid Ginn, and Nathan Sullivan, who each recorded a hit. Bryson Register, Thompson, and Sullivan each drove in a run for the Panthers, who also turned a double play defensively.
With the win, Ware County takes a 1-0 lead in the three-game region series. The Gators will travel to Perry on Friday, March 20, with first pitch scheduled for 4:30 PM as they look to continue their momentum in the series.
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3/17/2026: Varsity Baseball Vs. Perry*: Game 1
