The Ware County Gators opened the GHSA AAAA State Baseball Playoffs on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at Gator Field with a hard-fought split against Walnut Grove in a first-round doubleheader. With the series now even at one game apiece, a decisive Game 3 will determine who advances.
Game 1: Gators Ride Strong Pitching to 3-1 Victory
In the opener, Ware County leaned on a dominant performance on the mound from Seth Suess to secure a 3-1 win. Suess was in complete control throughout, going the distance and recording all 21 outs while allowing just one run on six hits. He struck out six and did not issue a walk.
The Gators wasted no time getting on the scoreboard. In the bottom of the first inning, Isaiah White delivered an RBI single to give Ware County an early 1-0 advantage. The lead grew in the second inning when Collin Crawford lifted a sacrifice fly to push the margin to 2-0.
Offensively, Ware County applied steady pressure, using aggressive baserunning to its advantage. Slade Sweat and Isaiah White each drove in a run and were active on the bases, helping the Gators swipe four total bases on the night. Sean Martell led the team at the plate, going 2-for-3 with an RBI and two stolen bases.
The Gators also flashed solid defense, turning a key double play to help preserve the win.
Game 2: Walnut Grove Responds to Even the Series
In the second game of the doubleheader, Walnut Grove answered back with a 6-1 victory to even the series.
Walnut Grove broke things open in the third inning, capitalizing on timely hitting and a couple of miscues to score four runs and take control of the game. Despite Ware County’s efforts to settle in, the early deficit proved difficult to overcome.
The Gators’ lone run came in the fifth inning when Isaiah White launched a solo home run to left field, providing a spark for the offense.
Tanner Larisey battled on the mound for Ware County, going six innings and allowing six runs (three earned) while striking out five.
Offensively, White and Landon Smallwood each recorded hits for the Gators, but opportunities were limited against a strong Walnut Grove pitching performance.
Winner-Take-All Game 3 on Deck
With the series tied 1-1, everything now comes down to a decisive Game 3 on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Gator Field. First pitch is scheduled for 4:30 PM as the Gators look to defend their home field and advance to the next round of the state playoffs.
Game 3 Information
Date: Thursday, April 23, 2026
Location: Gator Field
First Pitch: 4:30 PM
Tickets: $12.00 (online purchase only at GoFan.co)
Event Policies
Clear Bag Policy is in effect for all Ware County athletic events.
Parental Supervision Policy: All students must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult while attending events at Ware County facilities.
Gator Nation is encouraged to pack Gator Field and bring the energy as Ware County looks to punch its ticket to the next round.
For more photos, please click the link below.
4/22/2026: Ware Vs. Walnut Grove
