WAYCROSS, GA - The Ware County Gators put an emphatic finish on their Region 1-AAAA series with Wayne County on Thursday, rolling to a 13-2 victory in Game 3 behind a powerful offensive performance and steady pitching.
Ware County wasted no time setting the tone, as Slade Sweat delivered the game’s biggest swing in the opening inning. With the bases loaded, Sweat launched a grand slam to left field, giving the Gators an early advantage they would never relinquish.
The Gators continued to build momentum over the next two innings. In the second, Ware County added to its lead when Seth Suess drove a double into center field and Tanner Larisey later forced in a run after being hit by a pitch.
The game broke wide open in the third inning as Ware County erupted for seven runs. Patient at-bats and timely hitting highlighted the frame, with RBI contributions coming from Seth Suess, Isaiah White, and Landon Smallwood, along with multiple bases-loaded situations that led to runs via walks and a hit-by-pitch. The Gators’ disciplined approach at the plate was evident all night, as they drew 10 walks as a team.
On the mound, Ryder Kinnon set the tone early, tossing three shutout innings while allowing just one hit. He worked around traffic effectively and kept Wayne County off balance. Isaiah White came on in relief to help close out the game and secure the win.
Offensively, Ware County saw strong production throughout the lineup. Seth Suess and Landon Smallwood each recorded two hits while hitting back-to-back in the order, and Walker Hudson showed patience at the plate, drawing three walks. The Gators also applied constant pressure on the basepaths, swiping seven bases in the contest, with multiple steals from both White and Smallwood.
Defensively, Ware County turned a double play to help maintain control of the game.
Wayne County managed a pair of runs, with contributions from Octavius Leggett and Bryce Wilkerson. Dekan Yeomans led the Yellow Jackets with two hits, while the visitors also showed patience at the plate by drawing eight walks.
With the win, the Gators close out the region series in strong fashion and carry momentum into postseason play.
Up Next
Ware County will host Walnut Grove in the first round of the GHSA AAAA State playoffs on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, for a doubleheader beginning at 4:00 PM at Gator Field. If necessary, an “IF” game will be played on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 4:30 PM.
Tickets are $15.00 for Wednesday’s doubleheader and $12.00 for Thursday’s “IF” game per the GHSA and can be purchased online at GoFan.co.
All spectators are reminded that the Ware County Clear Bag Policy and Parental Supervision Policy will be enforced at all athletic events and facilities.