Intense Pitching Duel Leads Catholic to Victory Over Central in District 4-5A Showdown

In a showdown that had baseball purists on the edge of their seats, Catholic’s William Schmidt and Central’s Grayden Harris delivered a pitching duel for the ages in Tuesday’s District 4-5A clash. The matchup drew over 20 Major League Baseball scouts, highlighting the talent on display at Grizzly Field.

Ranked third nationally by MaxPreps, Catholic found themselves in a tight spot as Central took a 2-1 lead in the sixth inning. However, the resilient Catholic team rallied with three runs in the bottom of the sixth, ultimately securing a 4-2 victory over Central. Schmidt, an LSU signee and projected first-round MLB draft pick, showcased his dominance on the mound with 11 strikeouts and a masterful performance.

Central coach Leo McClure praised both pitchers, acknowledging the exceptional skill displayed by Schmidt and Harris. The rematch between Catholic and Central on April 15 promises to be another thrilling encounter as the two teams battle for the District 4-5A lead.

The game was not without its share of drama, with key plays and strategic decisions shaping the outcome. Central’s Cole Guidroz and Garrett Rabalais made crucial contributions, while Catholic’s Andrew Clapinski and Trip Dobson played pivotal roles in the team’s comeback.

In the end, it was Catholic’s grit and perseverance that secured the win, with coach Brad Bass emphasizing the team’s ability to find multiple ways to score runs. The intense competition and high stakes of district play only add to the excitement as the baseball season heats up.