In the Bi-District playoff series opener at Centennial Titan Ballpark, the Raccoons boys’ baseball team showcased their prowess on both offense and defense, taking home a commanding 10-3 victory over the Centennial Titans. The standout performance of the game belonged to senior Landon Karrh, who is committed to play baseball at Baylor in the fall and demonstrated remarkable skill, both at the plate and on the pitching mound.

Karrh’s standout contributions were pivotal to the Raccoons’ success. At bat, he delivered an impressive performance, recording one home run, another hit and accumulating three RBIs, including a celebratory moment captured in the video below, after Karrh hit this home run out to the parking lot. 

Additionally, Karrh’s presence on the mound proved formidable, as he conceded only four hits and racked up nine strikeouts over 100 pitches and only let up four hits, while facing 29 batters throughout the game.

Joining Karrh in the spotlight were seniors Michael Catalano and John Larkin, who showcased their offensive skills with notable contributions. Catalano, an Oklahoma University baseball commit, exhibited his batting prowess with two runs, one hit, and one RBI, while Larkin’s two hits and one run further bolstered the Raccoons’ offensive efforts.

Defensively, Bryce Nickson stepped up admirably, seamlessly filling in for the injured Larkin, who was only hitting last night at first base and making critical plays that stifled the Titans’ offensive advances.

The story of the game was shaped by early errors from the Titans, allowing the Raccoons to seize an early 2-0 lead after two innings played. Despite a brief offensive surge from the Titans in the third inning, in which Centennial took a temporary 3-2 lead where they scored three runs, the Raccoons maintained their composure and responded with five runs over the following two innings – including the play of the game, which was Karrh’s standout home run – that depicted the Raccoons’ offensive explosion. The Raccoons added three more runs in the final two innings of the game.

Interim Head Coach Zachary James, who is normally an assistant coach, stepped in for Head Coach Steven De La Cerda, who was again absent, and provided strong leadership, guiding the team to victory.

Looking ahead to the second game of the series, scheduled for Friday at 7:30 p.m. at Smotherman Ballpark, the Raccoons aim to build upon their momentum. An intriguing storyline revolves around the availability of Centennial’s starting pitcher, Jace Patton, who has logged significant pitching time in recent games, totaling to nearly 300 total pitches in the past three games all within a week. Should Patton be sidelined, the Raccoons will look to capitalize on their offensive prowess and secure a series sweep.

With aspirations for a deep playoff run, the Raccoons remain focused and determined as they continue their quest for postseason success.

Update: due to inclement weather, the second game of the series was reschdueled from 7:30 p.m to 6 p.m.