Phil Campbell’s Colton Baker swings at a pitch in the Bobcats’ loss to Sheffield. Photo by Bart Moss.

By Bart Moss

For the FCT

The Phil Campbell Bobcats faced a daunting task against the top-ranked Sheffield Bulldogs in the first round of the state baseball playoffs.

The Bobcats’ youth and inexperience were overpowered by a veteran squad of talented pitchers. Sheffield won game one 6-0 and game two 8-2.

In game one, the Bobcats had to face high-touted lefty Ryan Ruggles, a UAB signee. Ruggles struck out 15 Bobcats. Phil Campbell’s only hits came on singles by Peyton Thomas and Colton Baker.

In game two, Phil Campbell faced Drake Beavers. Beavers allowed only four hits and struck out seven. Colton Baker had two hits in the loss.

“We had a tough task going into this game,” Bobcat coach Jonathan Raper said.

“We are very young. I hope this was a great learning experience for our team. I hope we can build on it and go further next year.

“I really appreciate the leadership our seniors have given to these younger players. They have been a great group to work with.”