Chipley and Cottondale are an even 5-5 against one another since April of 2021, but likely not for long. The Tigers will square off against the Hornets at 6:00 p.m. on Friday. Chipley will be looking to extend their current four-game winning streak.
While Chipley's victory against Destin wasn't quite the blowout it was the last time the pair played, they still came out on top. The Tigers had just enough and edged out the Sharks 1-0. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest win the Tigers have posted since March 3rd.
Brantley Kirkland
| 02/10/26 @ Holmes County | 3 |
| 03/17/26 @ Covenant School of Jacksonville | 2 |
| 03/10/26 vs Jay | 2 |
| 04/02/26 vs Destin | 1 |
| 03/24/26 vs Baker | 1 |
| + 2 more games |
The result came thanks to Brantley Kirkland's shutout, as he gave up just two hits and racked up eight Ks. He also tossed a walk, which is notable because Chipley is 7-1 when he allows at most two walks, but 5-6 otherwise.
Cottondale came out on top against Holmes County on Thursday thanks in part to the team's impressive six-run fifth inning. The Hornets were the clear victors by a 10-2 margin over the Blue Devils. The game was the first time the Hornets have beaten the Blue Devils on their field since April 25, 2023.
Lane Johnson spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: he surrendered only one earned (and one unearned) run on three hits and racked up ten Ks. He has been consistent: he hasn't given up more than two walks in seven consecutive appearances.
On the hitting side, the team relied heavily on Trace Pelfrey, who went 3-for-5 with four RBI, two doubles, and one run. Those four RBI gave him a new career-high. Tyler Jones was another key player, going 2-for-3 with two runs, one double, and one RBI.
They weren't the only ones making solid contact: Cottondale kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 14 hits. That's the most hits they've managed all season.
Chipley's record now sits at 12-7. As for Cottondale, their record is now 8-11.
Chipley couldn't quite get it done against Cottondale when the teams last played back in March as they fell 6-1. Can the Tigers avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
