Barron Collier took a eight-run loss the last time they faced off against IMG Academy Gray, but this time they managed to keep it close and that made all the difference. The Cougars came out on top in a nail-biter against the Ascenders on Thursday, sneaking past 6-4. The win was a breath of fresh air for the Cougars as it put an end to their three-game losing streak.
Andrew Maroney looked comfortable as he tossed four innings while giving up three earned runs off five hits. He has been nothing but reliable on the mound: he hasn't given up more than two walks in seven consecutive appearances.
On the hitting side, Blaine Shoemaker was incredible, getting on base in all three of his plate appearances with one triple, one stolen base, and two RBI. Those two RBI gave him a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Mason Humphrey, who scored two runs and stole a base while getting on base in all three of his plate appearances.

Cougars
04/10/25 vs IMG Academy Gray | 6-4 |
03/27/25 vs Canterbury | 10-0 |
03/26/25 vs Loyola Academy | 9-5 |
03/21/25 vs Gulf Coast | 4-2 |
03/18/25 vs Riverview Sarasota | 6-5 |
+ 2 more games |
Barron Collier's victory was their seventh straight at home, which pushed their record up to 17-6. The home wins came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 7.6 runs over those games. As for IMG Academy Gray, their record now sits at 14-9.
Coming up, Barron Collier will venture away from home to face off against American Heritage at 6:30 p.m. on Friday. The last three games the Stallions have played have been within two runs, so don't be surprised if it's a close one. As for IMG Academy Gray, they will host Inspiration Academy at 4:00 p.m. on Friday. The Lions' pitching crew has only allowed 3.8 runs per game this season, so the Ascenders' hitters will have their work cut out for them.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps